We see dangerous driving habits every time we drive in Pennsylvania, and all too often, they lead to serious car accidents. Reckless or inattentive behaviors put drivers, passengers, and pedestrians at risk, often leading to injuries and disputes over fault. When liability is determined, those dangerous habits can affect how accident claims are handled.
What Is Distracted Driving and How Does It Impact Accident Claims?
Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of traffic accidents. This behavior occurs when a driver’s attention is diverted from the road due to activities like texting, adjusting GPS systems, or eating. Failing to focus on driving reduces reaction times and increases the likelihood of collisions.
When distracted driving contributes to an accident, it can complicate claims. Proving distraction requires evidence like phone records, witness statements, or surveillance footage. If a driver is found to have been inattentive, they may be held liable for damages.
How Does Speeding Influence Accident Claims?
Driving above the speed limit or too fast for road conditions is another dangerous habit. Speeding reduces a driver’s ability to react to sudden changes, increases stopping distances, and intensifies the impact of collisions. High-speed accidents often result in severe injuries and extensive property damage.
In accident claims, speeding can be a significant factor in determining liability. Police reports, skid marks, and traffic cameras may provide evidence of excessive speed. If speeding is proven, the at-fault driver may face greater responsibility for the damages caused, potentially affecting settlement negotiations or court decisions.
What Role Does Driving Under the Influence Play in Accident Claims?
Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs impairs judgment, reaction time, and motor skills. Accidents caused by intoxicated drivers are often severe due to impaired decision-making and reduced control over the vehicle.
In claims involving impaired driving, liability is typically straightforward to establish, especially if there is evidence such as breathalyzer results or arrest records. However, the severity of the driver’s actions can lead to punitive damages in addition to compensatory claims. These cases often involve higher settlement amounts due to the highly reckless nature of driving under the influence.
How Does Aggressive Driving Affect Accident Claims?
Examples of aggressive driving include tailgating, frequent lane changes, and road rage. These actions create unsafe conditions and increase the risk of accidents. Aggressive drivers may cause rear-end collisions, sideswipes, or multi-vehicle crashes due to their impatience or hostility.
Establishing aggressive driving in a claim may involve witness accounts, traffic citations, or video evidence. Courts and insurance companies may view aggressive driving as reckless, leading to greater accountability for the at-fault party. This behavior can significantly influence the amount of compensation awarded.
What Are the Effects of Failing to Obey Traffic Signals on Accident Claims?
Ignoring traffic signals (running red lights or failing to yield) is a dangerous habit that often results in collisions at intersections. These accidents can involve high speeds and multiple vehicles, increasing the risk of serious injuries and disputes over fault.
Accident claims stemming from disregarded traffic signals also rely on evidence like witness testimony, traffic camera footage, and police reports. If a driver is found to have violated traffic laws, they are more likely to be held liable for the damages caused. This behavior can complicate claims when multiple drivers dispute responsibility, making evidence critical for determining fault.
West Chester Car Accident Lawyers at Eckell Sparks Advocate for Safe Driving Behaviors
If you were injured in a car accident in Delaware County, Chester County, or Montgomery County caused by another party’s dangerous driving habits, the trusted West Chester car accident lawyers at Eckell, Sparks, Levy, Auerbach, Monte, Sloane, Matthews & Auslander, P.C. can assist with your case. To schedule an initial consultation, submit our online form or call our Media and West Chester, Pennsylvania, offices at 610-565-3701.