When a person gets behind the wheel of a vehicle, they have a legal responsibility to drive safely. This can protect not only them but the other people on the road as well. Unfortunately, people do not always do so and car accidents happen. This may be due to a simple mistake or careless driving. These accidents can be very serious and cause life-injuring injuries to a person or even death to a person involved.
Often times, a person who is injured in an accident caused by negligence wishes to hold that driver responsible for any damages that occur as a result. In order to do so, they can pursue a personal injury lawsuit. During this time, it can be beneficial to have an experienced attorney to guide the individual through this process and defend their claim.
Types of Negligence
Unfortunately, it is fairly common to see driver negligence on the road. While there are many actions that can be classified as driver negligence, these can be categorized in two ways: dangerous and distracted driving. When a person does not follow the rules of the road, they are driving dangerously, This can put others on the road at risk. Actions that are considered dangerous driving can include speeding, reckless driving, improper lane changes, unsafe passing, failure to abide by stop signs and lights, street racing, driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, and more.
Another type of negligence that is seen on the road is distracted driving. Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of accidents in the United States. Drivers must always pay attention to the road as well as the other vehicles surrounding them. Any distractions can cause them to lose focus and cause an accident. A common distraction is the use of a cell phone or other electronic device while driving. Drivers can be found using their phone as navigation, to make or receive phone calls, listen to music, send a text or email, or search the internet. Other distractions while driving can include eating, looking for something in the car, or speaking to other passengers.
Proving Negligence
Drivers who are distracted or act dangerously while on the road put other drivers and passengers at risk for serious injuries or even death. If a person does become injured due to someone else’s negligence, that driver may be held responsible. To do so, the injured party must satisfy the “burden of proof.” This requires them to gather evidence that shows the accident and the injuries were a direct result of the driver’s negligence. Evidence that can be used in court can consist of a police report from the scene of the accident, medical documentation of the injury, pictures and videos of the accident, or any witnesses.
Contact our Firm
Marc N. Needelman is an experienced attorney working throughout the state of Connecticut. Contact the law firm to set up a free initial consultation for matters, related to real estate, personal injury, criminal defense, estate planning, and more.
