Car accidents can happen in the blink of an eye and can leave you with devastating injuries, hefty medical bills, and a damaged vehicle. Determining who is at fault for a car accident is crucial in order to recover compensation for your losses.
Here are some of the most common causes of car accidents and who's typically at fault.
Distracted Driving
Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of car accidents. This occurs when the driver is not paying full attention to the road and is instead distracted by something else, such as texting, eating, or talking on the phone. In most cases, the driver who was distracted and caused the accident will be considered at fault.
Driving Under the Influence
Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol is another major cause of car accidents. These substances impair a driver's ability to react quickly and make sound decisions while driving. If a driver is found to be under the influence at the time of the accident, they will almost certainly be considered at fault.
Speeding
Speeding is a common cause of car accidents, particularly on highways and busy roads. Driving at high speeds makes it difficult to stop quickly and avoid collisions. In most cases, the driver who was speeding and caused the accident will be considered at fault.
Running Red Lights and Stop Signs
Running red lights and stop signs is a reckless driving behavior that often leads to serious accidents. When a driver fails to stop at a red light or stop sign, they are likely to cause a collision with another vehicle. The driver who ran the red light or stop sign will typically be considered at fault for the accident.
Unsafe Lane Changes
Unsafe lane changes can also lead to car accidents. This happens when a driver changes lanes abruptly and without checking to see if it is safe to do so. If an accident occurs due to an unsafe lane change, the driver who made the unsafe lane change will be considered at fault.
Determining Fault in Car Accidents
Determining fault in car accidents can be a complex process, and it's important to work with an experienced car accident attorney to ensure that your rights are protected. In most cases, fault is determined by looking at police reports, witness statements, and other evidence from the scene of the accident.
If you have been involved in a car accident, it's important to seek medical attention right away and contact an attorney as soon as possible. Your attorney can help you understand your legal rights and options and work to recover compensation for your injuries, lost wages, and other damages.
At Butwinick Injury Law, we have extensive experience handling car accident cases and can provide you with the legal guidance and representation you need.