There are countless factors that contribute to car accidents. One scenario that is not often considered is a pre-existing medical condition.
Many things can lead to impaired driving. The most well-known reason is drunk driving. However, not many drivers know that pre-existing medical conditions can also cause impaired driving. If a person was involved in a car accident that was caused by another driver’s medical condition, they should speak to a lawyer as soon as possible.
What Medical Conditions Cause Impaired Driving?
A few common medical conditions that can lead to impaired driving include:
Heart Disease: Heart disease is a major concern in the United States, it is one of the leading causes of death. Behind the wheel, heart disease can be especially dangerous. Fatigue, shortness of breath, and loss of focus or consciousness are all symptoms of heart disease. A car accident can easily occur if any one of these events happen.
Seizures: Neurological disorders attack a person’s ability to control their nerves. Suffering a seizure causes a person to lose control of their motor functions and their ability to communicate.
Diabetes: Suffering from low blood sugar can easily make one dizzy or even pass out, which is extremely dangerous while driving. High blood sugar is a concern as well for diabetics; nerve damage can occur and loss of consciousness as well.
Failing Eyesight: Most states dictate that drivers have to pass eye exams before getting licenses.
How is Fault Determined in a Car Wreck?
It can be very complicated when determining fault for a car accident if any of the drivers claim that an unforeseen medical problem was the cause of the accident. In some states, there is a Sudden Medical Emergency Doctrine. Under this doctrine, the driver must prove that a medical condition caused the accident and that they did not know they had a medical condition.
If a driver did not know about their medical condition, they may not be found to be at fault for the accident.
When is a Driver Liable?
If a driver has a history of medical issues, they may be held liable for the crash. For example, if a driver has a history of cardiac issues or any other related health issues, they might be held responsible if an accident occurs.
It is important to determine if the accident was preventable. Even with a medical condition, all drivers are required to still operate their vehicles safely and within all traffic laws.
Also, if a medically impaired driver suffered a medical emergency and they are not at fault for the accident, then both parties would have to go through their own insurance to pay for expenses.
Car crashes caused by medical conditions are complex because it can be hard to determine liability. If a driver experiences a car accident that was caused by another’s medical issue, it is important to contact a lawyer.
West Chester Car Accident Lawyers at Eckell Sparks Determine Liability in Complicated Car Accident Cases
If you have been injured in a car accident, contact one of our skilled West Chester car accident lawyers at Eckell, Sparks, Levy, Auerbach, Monte, Sloane, Matthews & Auslander, P.C. today. We will evaluate your case and hold the negligent party accountable for their actions. For a free consultation, complete our online form or call us at 610-565-3701. Located in Media and West Chester, Pennsylvania, we proudly serve clients throughout Delaware County, Chester County, and Montgomery County.