Common Causes of Car Accidents
In many cases, following the rules protects individuals from harm. Yet, even if you are careful to drive at an appropriate speed and obey all of the other rules of the road, you could still become the victim of a car accident due to the negligent or reckless actions of another driver. If this does happen, you can best protect your rights by consulting an auto accident lawyer near Severn. Contact a car accident lawyer before you file an insurance claim. He or she will need to know all the details of the incident, such as whether it was caused by the other driver’s impairment, recklessness, or distraction.
Impaired Driving
Drunk driving claims thousands of lives each year. Consuming alcohol affects a driver’s judgment and reaction time, among other problems. If your crash was caused by a drunk driver, your car accident lawyer can pursue a civil claim separately from any criminal charges that may be pending. The same applies to car crashes caused by drivers who were impaired by recreational drugs or even legal prescription drugs.
Aggressive or Reckless Driving
It’s important to practice mindfulness on the roads. Being aware of your proximity to other vehicles and the behaviors of other drivers can help keep you safe. Unfortunately, it isn’t always possible to avoid a collision with a driver who is using excessive speed, or who drives through a red light or stop sign. Tailgating, changing lanes in a dangerous manner, and failing to yield the right of way to other vehicles are other examples of aggressive driving. In these cases, car accident lawyers can use the police report to substantiate your insurance claim or personal injury lawsuit.
Distracted Driving
One of the most common causes of car wrecks is distracted driving. Drivers often underestimate the extent to which using their cellphones affects their ability to drive safely. The result can be serious injuries or even death. Car accident attorneys handle cases involving a wide range of distractions. In addition to cellphone use, drivers can become distracted by rubbernecking at crash sites, looking at a GPS or map, eating or drinking, and talking with passengers.