What Information Is in a Car Accident Police Report and Why You Should Get a Copy
When you’re involved in an automobile accident, getting a car accident police report is likely the furthest thing from your mind. You have a million things to do as it is, particularly if you need to receive medical treatment.
But once the dust settles, you should make it a priority to get a copy of the police report as soon as possible.
Getting the report is usually easy. You can either ask the local enforcement agency that responded to the accident for a copy or if your insurance agency requested the report, you can ask them to provide you with a copy.
The police report will contain valuable information that can help you in your insurance claim. Or, in a more severe accident, the details could help you in a court settlement.
Let’s look at what exactly is in a car accident police report and how you can use it to help you move forward after an accident.
What’s In a Car Accident Police Report?
When an officer responds to a car accident, he or she collects specific information from witnesses, those involved in the car accident, and the scene itself.
The officer will take measurements and photos, talk to witnesses, and make notes that will later be drafted into the police report.
The police report will contain the date, time, and location of the accident along with the weather conditions. The officer may note the conditions of the road and lighting.
Officers will document any damage to the vehicles and where the damage is located.
Along with the personal information those involved, the officer will also include witness statements and identifying information.
If the officer issued a citation to any involved parties, this should also be noted in the report.
How to Use a Police Report
Once you have a copy of the report, review it to understand the official version of events.
In a settlement case, the police report can be used as a negotiation tool. Details like injuries, treatment, and citations can be helpful in supporting your demands.
However, if the case goes to court, the police report will not be admissable since the responding officer did not witness when the accident occured.
If you find errors in the report, it’s unlikely that you can get them corrected, but a car accident case attorney can provide guidance on how to proceed.
Bottom Line: Do I Need a Copy of an Accident Report?
Though the car accident police report won’t be admissible in court, it can still help you in the early stages of your insurance claim or settlement.
If you’ve been involved in a car accident, it’s important to understand the official version of events so that you know what to expect moving forward.
The other parties and their insurance companies will likely have their own copies, so obtaining one for yourself will even the playing field and give you the best chance of supporting your case.
For more legal tips and insights, make sure you check out the rest of our blog.
Should I Get a Lawyer For a Car Accident That Wasn’t My Fault? Understanding What the Law Says About Car Accidents
Have you recently been in an accident? Are you wondering, “Should I get a lawyer for a car accident that wasn’t my fault?” If so, you’re not alone in that question.
There are about 6 million car accidents in the U.S. every year. Distraction counts for 1 in 5 of those accidents. More than 1,060 of those accidents result in injuries from a distracted driver.
If you’ve been in an accident, you deserve legal aid. Insurance companies are not always honest, as much as we’d like to think they are. The same goes for the driver who hit you—they could manipulate the story to make it appear that they weren’t at fault.
Regardless of who’s “at fault,” having a lawyer can help you get the respect and settlement you deserve. Sometimes relying on your insurance company (or theirs) simply isn’t enough.
Let’s break down this thought a little more.
If You Suffered Significant Damages
A lawyer knows how to handle a case where you or your vehicle have suffered from significant damages.
An unknowing person may accept whatever settlement the insurance company throws their way—in an effort for a speedy case. But if the offender’s insurance company doesn’t allow for the settlement you deserve, a lawyer can go after other measures—such as the perp’s assets.
Insurance Companies: Just Another Business
An insurance company, like many other businesses, are there to make money. So although they may get you compensation, they may do so too quickly to investigate your claim in a thorough manner. You may receive a settlement that is far too low for what you deserve.
If you suffered any bodily injury during the accident, that’s all the more reason to get a lawyer’s help. They can determine the loss of wages you may face and get your proper financial compensation. And unlike insurance companies, many lawyers don’t require payment until you see retribution.
The Other Driver Could Lie
If you’re settling this on your own terms, it’s easy for a story to get manipulated. The other driver could make it appear as if the accident wasn’t their fault. Worse yet, they could lie to their insurance companies and make it seem like the car accident was your fault.
A lawyer knows what’s worth fighting for—and how to produce an ample argument that’ll get you what you deserve.
Still Wondering, “Should I Get a Lawyer for a Car Accident That Wasn’t My Fault?”
If you’re in an accident, especially one that isn’t your fault, it can be hard to know what to do. If you are at fault, it’s easy to know why you might need legal representation. But if you’re not at fault, you may think you can settle the dispute without a legal aide.
If you’re still wondering, “Should I get a lawyer for a car accident that wasn’t my fault?”, that’s okay. It’s natural to be confused about the next steps.
Instead, take action and stand up for yourself. Check out our online directory of lawyers so you can find the right attorney for you. Many offer free consultations, so you can get the peace of mind you deserve without losing more money.
Car Accident Lawsuit: Why the Majority of Cases Don’t Go to Trial
Annually, over 1 million people die in car accidents across the world. Plus, 20 to 50 million people are either disabled or injured every year.
Many of those drivers and passengers end up in a car accident lawsuit. Whether it’s emotional trauma, physical pain and injuries, property damage, or a devastating loss, many individuals who are involved in a car accident seek some form of compensation.
There are also those who find themselves at the other end of a lawsuit for reckless driving or a hit and run, amongst other things.
While there are many lawsuits generated from vehicle collisions, very few of those cases go to trial.
Continue scrolling to find out what those reasons are!
The Drivers Want to Put it Behind Them
Going to trial can be both time-consuming and emotional. When anyone is a car accident, the chances are more likely that they want to put the whole thing behind them rather than drag out a case for months, and even years, on end.
Many individuals NEED the compensation they seek, and as soon as possible. After a vehicle collision, there are many expenses, especially if missing work and medical bills are part of the equation. Typically, it’s in the best interest of a client to accept a settlement offer than to drag their accident case out for just a few thousand dollars more.
If that lapse in time would create an unhealthy or detrimental situation for you, then your lawyer will likely advise you to take a settlement.
The Defense May Break down Your Character
If you are involved in a car accident lawsuit going to trial and the accident was not your fault AT ALL, the defense may still attempt to break down your character in front of a jury.
In an attempt to keep your compensation owed as low as possible, they will do everything they can to shine you in a negative light. If you go to court, you’ll do a lot of prep work with your lawyer and will have to be emotionally ready for appearing and speaking in court.
Not everyone can handle this kind of pressure, which is why they choose to settle instead of going to court.
Is the Insurance Company Willing to Negotiate?
Usually, insurance companies are ready to play ball and negotiate a settlement. If they aren’t, however, then the only option is to go to trial.
This reason is why you want a lawyer who is always ready to go to trial, but who makes every attempt to settle and get you the best compensation, first.
It’s a misconception that a lawyer who avoids trial hasn’t done their due diligence. On the contrary, it means that they have exhausted every witness, looked at any and all medical reports, and every other detail of your case to come up with a fair and significant settlement for all of your damages.
What Is Your Case Worth?
What are your total and predicted medical expenses? What is the value of your pain and suffering, both physically speaking and emotionally speaking?
What proof is necessary to prove your pain and suffering to a jury? Is there potential for punitive damages?
Expert witnesses like psychiatrists, doctors, specialist, and other professionals might be required to testify to convince a jury of your damages. Many of these professionals require a hefty paycheck to testify at trial.
If your car accident attorney deems that the costs will outweigh the benefits, they’ll likely encourage you to take a settlement.
Going to Court Can Hurt Your Case
When it comes to auto cases, going to court can hinder your chances of getting a settlement you deserve. There are so many variables involved, and it’s up to a jury to deem whether or not you receive compensation.
Lawyers know that no matter how strong a case is, going to court isn’t necessarily the best option. While there may be a chance to receive better compensation, there are also risks involved with taking that chance.
How Do You Know If You Should Go to Trial?
As it pertains to car accident court cases, your lawyer can make or break your case. When you hire someone reputable who you can trust, you don’t have to make the big decisions on your own.
If the insurance company is willing to negotiate, and your lawyer has explored every single piece of information, they’re going to get you the best possible settlement.
Some of the damages you might be eligible for are:
- Compensation for lost wages
- Reimbursement for medical expenses, both now and in the future
- Punitive damages
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
If you’re particularly shaken by your accident, your lawyer will probably determine that going to trial isn’t the best thing for you emotionally and physically.
If you’re strapped for cash, and you don’t have upwards of a year to wait for compensation, it’s also a smart choice to settle before going to trial.
A Car Accident Lawsuit Doesn’t Usually Go to Trial
When it comes to a car accident lawsuit, almost all cases don’t go to trial. That’s because most lawyers do their due diligence and gather all the information necessary to get the best settlement offers for their clients.
Going to trial can be emotionally draining and unreliable. While it might seem like the best way to get the most compensation, it will also generate lots of costs in the process.
Want to know more about car accident lawsuits? Check out the car accident section of our blog for more information, like how to find the best lawyer for your case!
How to Find the Best Car Accident Lawyer: Your Complete Guide
So you suffered an auto accident, now what? Being a novice, receiving an offer from the adjuster, or disability injuries are some reasons why you should consider hiring a car accident lawyer. However, it doesn’t matter the extent of damage suffered, you should always consider consulting an expert.
You may think waiting until contacting the insurance company is the best approach, but that’s far from the truth. Once you suffer a traffic accident, you should get in touch with an accident attorney. Don’t know how to find the right attorney?
We’ve got you covered. Here’s your step-by-step guide to finding the best car accident lawyers near you.
1. Do Your Research
Finding the best expert for your case starts with doing your research. A good strategy is searching online for “personal injury attorney near me.” Take a look at the lawyers that specialize in traffic accidents.
Car accidents lawyers have the knowledge and experience needed to obtain the best outcome in your case. However, you shouldn’t go with the cheapest traffic accident lawyer you find. Make sure you take a look at their Win-Loss record.
You should also consider their online reviews. During your search, we recommend you reach out to their office to learn more about their process and rates.
2. Get Ready for Your Initial Consultation
Today, most car accident lawyers offer a free initial consultation. During this meeting, you’ll be able to discuss your case. The attorney will tell you about your potential outcomes and their approach in your case.
Before scheduling your consultation, it’s vital to gather all your documents and evidence. You want to share this information with your lawyer. These documents will allow them to offer a realistic estimate of the outcomes in your case.
If you haven’t done so before, you should consult with a car accident doctor before meeting any accident lawyers. A medical expert can provide a report on your injuries, potential medical costs, and rehabilitation process. You should also share this report with your lawyer.
3. Meet with Several Auto Accident Attorneys
Don’t be afraid of consulting several attorneys. Meeting several traffic accident attorneys will help you obtain a clear idea of your cause of action and outcomes.
Be sure to share the same information with all the attorneys you meet to get an accurate picture of your case. Don’t forget to ask about their rates for your case. If they can’t provide a hard number, you should ask them for a written estimate of the potential costs.
4. Choose the Best Expert
Choosing the right attorney will come down to finding an expert who provides the best potential outcome in your case while meeting your budget. Don’t fall into the temptation of choosing the cheapest attorney. Focus on who has the best reputation and winning streak when it comes to traffic accident cases.
Is Hiring an Attorney After an Auto Accident the Best Call?
Believe it or not, hiring an attorney after suffering an auto accident can save you headaches in the long run. You should also consult with a doctor to obtain a clear idea about your injuries.
Finding the right attorney for your case may seem next to impossible. However, it all comes down to doing your research and meeting with several experts.
Need to hire an attorney today? Search our directory to find the best lawyer for your car accident case.
Here’s How Much Money You Can Get From a Car Accident Settlement
You’ve been in a car accident and it wasn’t your fault. The medical bills are piling up and you’re not sure what to do about it.
Some people suggest that you look into going for a settlement but you’re not sure it is going to be worth it. You’re wondering how much to expect from a car accident settlement if you do decide that’s the route you want to go.
Continue reading this article and we’ll help you understand more about the typical car accident settlement and what you might expect.
The 101 on How Much to Expect from a Car Accident Settlement
You can find out how to deal with a car accident when you work with a lawyer that understands the process. For now, let’s get you through some of the basics.
Know There are Differences By State
Depending on the state you’re in, you may get more or less compensation for your injuries and pain and suffering.
Beyond all of the calculations and formulas, the real number you need to know is how much money you’d have to get to give up your right to pursue further legal action against the at-fault party.
Average Settlement Amounts
While it may differ from case to case, here are some guidelines you can follow as to what the average settlement amounts are.
- Minor Injuries – $10,000 to $25,000
- Long-Lasting and Surgery-Requiring Injuries – $50,000 to $75,000
- Spinal Injuries without Paralysis – $75,000 to $100,000
- Brain Injuries – $100,000 to $250,000
- Paralysis and other Debilitating Injuries – Hundreds of thousands or even millions.
The best thing you can do is speak to an attorney that can help you understand your rights.
Giving Yourself the Best Chance at a Settlement
When you’re trying to get a good settlement, you need to give your attorney all of the facts.
Make sure you do not speak to any insurance companies and never admit fault. Even if you say something like, “I feel so bad” could make you sound like you’re the party that is at fault.
Gather as much evidence as possible about the accident. You should gather police testimony and even secure witnesses that are willing to come in and testify in court.
Your hope is to not have to go to court and go through a long and drawn-out case but if you have to, you want to be as prepared as possible.
There are even accident reconstruction specialists that can work with you to help a jury understand what happened and why you are due compensation. Being able to see the scene of the accident is sure to sway the jury in the right direction.
Stay in the Know About the Law
Now that you know how much to expect from a car accident settlement, why not learn more about the law? Understanding the laws that govern us make us better citizens and can help us through different situations.
Navigate through our site, find your favorite section and drop a bookmark to come back for more great reads.
Crash! Benefits of Having Philadelphia Car Accident Lawyers On Your Side
Philadelphia car accident lawyers are likely not in your rolodex. Car accident attorneys are not people we’d ever want to call. After all, no one wants to get involved in car accidents. This is trauma everyone can do without. But, in case we do find ourselves in an accident, it pays to know leading Philadelphia car accident lawyers in your area. This way, you can get the financial support you need to recover.
Philadelphia Car Accident Attorneys: What They Can Do for You When You Get Involved in a Car Accident
Philadelphia car accident lawyers should be your first call when you get involved in car accidents in the area. A car accident is a moment of shock and trauma that has far-reaching repercussions. First thing, you need to think about your vehicle. Does it need fixing or replacement? What kind of damage coverage do you have for your vehicle? Next, but equally important, you have your recovery to think about. A car accident will likely cause some physical injury, either temporary or debilitating you in the long term. The possibility of psychological and emotional trauma is also likely. You will have some form of medical recovery to take care of. A motor vehicle accident lawyer helps you get back on your feet after a motor vehicle accident. Since they know the system inside and out, there is less figuring out of what to do next. So, call one immediately after your car accident and then focus on everything else that you need to get done.
What your Car Accident Is Worth
One of the most important things to figure out when you get involved in a motor vehicle accident is how much claim you should make for your damages and injuries. For this one, it is important to talk to a Philadelphia auto accident attorney. They know best about what to consider given your unique circumstances. Remember, it is never just your immediate damages (physical, mental and material) that you need to consider. The effects of car accidents are far-reaching, and include your ability to earn a living and enjoy a full life. Your car accident lawyer will consider these, among other factors when filing a claim case against those involved, including their insurance company.
- Other considerations about your car accident include:
- Severity of injuries from the accident
- The age, life circumstances and activities of the victims
- Culpability in the circumstances of the car crash
- The available evidence and difficulty in proving the claims case
These are legal details that are best left with your auto accident attorney. Only legal professionals can guarantee that you get the maximum compensation that you deserve, which is ideal. After all, this isn’t about the money. It is about getting what’s due to you. You are the victim of an accident and it is important for responsible parties and insurance companies to pay. This is the start of your road to recovery.
Before You Hire: The Top Questions to Ask a Car Accident Lawyer Before Hiring Them
Did you know that back in 1913, car crashes resulted in 4,200 fatalities?
That’s right.
Now, some would say that it’s a small number compared to today’s vehicle fatality rate. But back then, there were only 2 million drivers.
Fast forward to present times, and car crashes have multiplied ten-fold. There have been 40,000 vehicle fatalities for each year from 2016 up to 2018. Moreover, last year’s accidents also led to 4.5 million people sustaining injuries.
If you or a loved one is a victim of such accidents, it’s important to retain a car accident lawyer ASAP. This way, you don’t have to be alone when facing insurance companies that may deny your claim.
The question is, how do you make certain you’re hiring the best car accident attorney? It helps to treat the selection process as a job interview. You need to ask the right questions to trim down your prospects.
Ready to learn what these must-ask questions are? Then let’s dive right into it!
1. How Long Have You Practiced Personal Injury in This State?
Personal injury laws are complex, covering other types of intentional and unintentional injuries. Apart from auto accidents, there are also slip and fall cases and medical negligence. Medical malpractice and product liability also fall under personal injury.
However, laws surrounding these injuries vary from state to state. For instance, 12 states and Puerto Rico are true no-fault states when it comes to auto insurance. In these states, there’s no need to prove who was at fault for causing a car accident.
That’s because each motorist should carry personal insurance protection (PIP) in these states. If a driver gets into an accident, the PIP will cover the damages the insured sustains. Still, there are exceptions to the no-fault rule, such as if a victim is permanently injured.
Whereas in other states, a victim has to prove that the other driver is at fault in order to win a claim. These states implement the “at-fault” law.
As you can see, both types of law have their own complexities. That’s why it’s important to hire a car accident lawyer who has a long history of practicing in your state. This is an important indicator of how well they know the ins and outs of your state’s personal injury laws.
2. Do You Specialize in Car Accidents?
It’s best to choose an attorney with significant experience handling car accidents. Again, this has to do with how complex personal injury laws are. That’s why a law firm’s focus on a specific area of personal injury is a crucial factor.
For instance, some lawyers have an impressive success rate for medical negligence cases. That, however, doesn’t automatically hold true for car accident cases they’ve handled. Their settlement or successful trial rates may not be as great for car accident cases.
3. Do You Only Represent Accident Victims?
This is one of the best ways to gauge the personality of an auto accident attorney. You likely will also feel more comfortable with a lawyer who only represents victims.
Why?
First, because trustworthy lawyers know that victims are usually the “underdogs” in lawsuits. Victims have much less power — and financial resources — than huge insurance companies. That’s why they dedicate their practice to serving the less-powerful.
4. How Many Similar Cases Have You Handled in the Past?
This is especially important if you were in a less common accident, such as if the other driver isn’t the car owner. Another is if the at-fault driver was operating a business car but may or may not be driving it for business “uses”.
In any case, you should hire a lawyer who has handled cases similar to yours. If the lawyer doesn’t look nor sound confident, feel free to move to your next prospect.
5. Can You Provide Proof of Such Cases You’ve Handled?
Many jurisdictions now permit lawyers to show the results of prior cases to new clients. If the lawyer answered yes to question #4, then ask if they can show you proof.
Keep in mind that how they did in these previous cases doesn’t guarantee the same results for your case though. However, you may feel more at ease knowing that the lawyer will strive hard to deliver the same results.
6. How Long Do You Think It Will Take for My Case to Achieve the Best Resolution?
Some insurance companies are quick to make a settlement offer. The thing is, their offer isn’t always fair and could be far less than what you’ll get if your case went to trial. Of course, if it does go to trial, it’ll take longer to resolve your case.
That’s why experienced attorneys will first need to give your case a thorough review. That’s how they determine if there’s a considerable chance of your case winning a trial. If there is, then they will guide you through the pros and cons of taking your case to court.
7. Will You Handle My Case Personally?
The best auto accident lawyers aren’t a one-man team — they have paralegals and assistants. In the U.S. alone, there are about 263,800 employed paralegals and legal assistants. They contribute a lot to the casework and provide the necessary support to lawyers.
As crucial as these assistants are, you have the right to know who will be working on your case. It’s the quality of your life as an injured person on the line after all. That’s why the lawyer who you’ll hire should be open and upfront on who will handle the bulk of your case.
Hire a Car Accident Lawyer You Feel the Most Comfortable With
Auto accidents injuries can have a long-term, even permanent effect on your life. Granted, no amount of money can equate to the pain and suffering you may have to go through. But fair compensation can at least help you maintain a good quality of life even with your injuries.
To ensure you receive just compensation, hire only the best car accident lawyer for your case. Ask all these questions so you can gauge which lawyer makes you feel the most comfortable.
Need more guidance in finding and hiring the best attorneys? Bookmark our blog site then so you can stay up-to-date on our latest legal guides!
Can Car Accidents Cause Depression?
Car accidents are known to cause both minor and serious injuries to victims who are involved. Auto accidents also cause long term illnesses such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and even anxiety.
Mental health problems such as depression require medical treatment and a victim who is suffering from this condition as a result of a car accident can seek compensation with the help of a personal injury lawyer.
5 Depression Symptoms To Lookout For After Being Involved In A Car Accident.
1. No Longer Interested In Things Or People You Used To Like.
The first sign that may indicate you are suffering from depression after a car accident is losing interest in things or people you used to like. It can be your work, relatives, friends, and even a hobby. Things that used to bring you joy are no longer interesting and in such a case, it is advisable that you create a list of the things you used to like before the accident. This will help you realize whether you are losing interest in things and people or not.
2. Anxiety.
Anxiety is not just a normal worry, but a serious issue that can result in phobias, attacks and other serious symptoms such as muscle tension, insomnia, and even gastrointestinal issues. After a car accident, this disorder can start interfering with the victim’s ability to continue living a normal healthy life. That is why it is advisable that you visit a health specialist for a proper evaluation to be conducted.
3. Change in Eating Habit.
A person suffering from depression also changes his or her eating habit. depression can either cause a person to overeat or neglect to eat. Therefore, if you have been involved in a car accident and you, later on, realize that your eating habit has changed, then you might want to seek medical treatment because you might be suffering from depression.
4. Persistent Headaches.
If you are experiencing headaches after an auto accident, then this is a sign of depression. That is because when the body experiences increased tension, it can result in pains and aches such as chronic indigestion and jaw tension. Therefore, if you are experiencing persistent headaches after a car accident, then it is advisable that you visit a healthcare facility for further tests and treatment if necessary.
5. Not Getting Enough Rest.
Those who suffer from depression find it difficult to sleep or tend to oversleep. If you are facing such a problem after being involved in a car accident, then chances are that you might be suffering from depression. Besides suffering from insomnia, depression also causes one to feel weak throughout the day even when not engaged in any tough work.
Conclusion
Car accidents do not only cause physical harm to victims but mental problems as well such as depression. This condition is not easy to treat and can cost a patient a lot of money depending on how severe the problem is. If you have been involved in a car accident, lookout for any of these symptoms to help you determine whether you are suffering from depression or not. Lakota R. Denton is an Asheville Personal Injury Attorney who has helped many people who have been involved in serious car accidents.
5 Key Tips for Choosing the Right Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
Riding a motorcycle is an exhilarating experience. The wind in your face, the speed, the open road all make for an unforgettable experience. There’s nothing like spending a day on your bike enjoying the scenery.
The downside of riding a motorcycle is the high level of risk involved. Even though motorcycles make up 3% of registered vehicles in the U.S., 14% of all traffic fatalities are motorcycle riders. That’s mostly because drivers don’t see motorcyclists on the road.
If you find yourself in an accident, you need a motorcycle accident lawyer to represent you and protect your rights. Read on to learn five tips for finding the right attorney to represent you.
1. Specialization
There are many different types of attorneys out there. Some specialize in business law or tax law, while others work in personal injury.
You want to work with an attorney that specializes in motorcycle accidents. There are a lot of minor details that a motorcycle accident lawyer will understand better than other attorneys. You can learn more about that here.
2. Case Success Rate
You also want to ask an attorney about their experience, success rate, and client referrals. You don’t want to hire an attorney who has very little experience handling cases like yours.
You want to make sure you have someone who can represent your interests and win a case on your behalf.
3. Case Handling and Communications
Attorneys are busy people. They work to juggle a lot of different cases and are often at court appearances.
You want to make sure that your expectations are clear when you hire the attorney. Ask them if they handle your case or if a paralegal does most of the work. You also want to know how often they’ll communicate with you regarding your case.
4. How Do They Plan to Represent You?
This is one of the most important questions to ask. When you trust a motorcycle accident lawyer to take on your case, you want to know what their plan of attack is.
Ask them how they plan to work your case and how you’ll benefit from that. Make sure that you understand how they work with insurance companies and negotiate settlements.
5. Don’t Wait to Speak with an Attorney
In just about every state, you have a certain amount of time after the accident to file a claim or lawsuit. That’s referred to as the statute of limitations. In most cases, you have two years in order to file a lawsuit.
That doesn’t mean you can wait one year and 9 months to speak to an attorney. They have to gather evidence, talk to witnesses, and file the appropriate paperwork.
The longer you wait, the harder it becomes to prove that your injuries were the result of the accident. Fast action is important when choosing a motorcycle accident attorney.
Find the Right Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
Riding a motorcycle is a wonderful experience, but it comes with a lot of risks. If you get into an accident, you’ll need to find a good motorcycle accident lawyer.
You also want to make sure that you get an attorney right away. Look for one that specializes in motorcycle accidents, will help you navigate insurance, and has a high success rate.
Are you ready to find the right lawyer for your case? Look at our attorney directory to find one today.
What Are the Biggest Dangers of Distracted Driving?
According to a recent study, the average American sneaks a peek at their cell phone about 80 times per day. That works out to once every 12 minutes or so.
People check their cell phones when they first wake up in the morning. They also check them while they’re eating breakfast, lunch, and dinner. And unfortunately, many people check them while they’re driving as well.
Almost 60% of people admit to checking their phones when they’re behind the wheel, despite the many dangers of distracted driving. Here are just a few of the dangers that a person can face when using a cell phone while driving.
Accidents
Every year, there are about 6 million car accidents that take place in the U.S. These accidents happen for any number of reasons.
In some cases, accidents occur when people are driving too fast. In others, slippery road conditions are to blame.
But in recent years, distracted driving has turned into one of the top reasons for motor vehicle accidents. There are about 400,000 people injured during distracted driving accidents each year.
A driver’s eyes only need to be diverted from the road for about three seconds on average for an accident to take place. That means that something as simple as a quick text message could lead to a distracted driving accident.
Deaths
Distracted driving kills. There are some people and publications that have gone as far as to call it the “new drunk driving” because of how dangerous it can be.
There are more than 3,000 people killed during accidents involving distracted drivers every year. That represents about 9% of all U.S. motor vehicle fatalities.
This is obviously one of the biggest dangers of distracted driving. When a person takes their eyes off the road for even just a second or two, it could lead to them killing themselves or others in a crash.
Lawsuits
A decade ago, there weren’t many distracted driving lawsuits working their way through the courts across the country. But in 2019, it’s not uncommon at all to see these kinds of lawsuits funneling through the justice system.
If you ever cause an accident as a result of distracted driving, you could face a lawsuit. You can also consider suing someone else if they cause an accident due to distracted driving.
A car accident attorney can explain your rights to you. They can let you know if you have a strong enough case in the event that you’re involved in a distracted driving accident.
Keep These Dangers of Distracted Driving in Mind at All Times
Every time you climb into the driver’s seat, you should remember the dangers of distracted driving and to put your phone away. These simple measures can help prevent a serious, life-changing accident.
Lead by example. If you have friends who drive while distracted, encourage them to put their phones down and keep their eyes on the road.
Read our blog for more information on the dangers of distracted driving.
