Failure To Stop Soon Enough Can Cause A Driver To Be Liable For Civil Damages
Speeding is a major factor in a large percentage of car accidents. One of the issues with speeding is that it can be more difficult to stop in a reasonable amount of time, leading to a rear-end accident or another type of collision. If you are involved in an accident with another motorist, the stopping distance of each party can determine who is at fault.
Failure to Stop in Time is a Common Cause of Accidents
Drivers are expected to stop their vehicles sooner than they might expect to be able to avoid an auto accident. This margin allows for a driver to account for other factors such as slippery road conditions. However, some drivers are impatient and will instead choose to tailgate. Other drivers may cause a collision with a stopped car because they did not slow down in time and struck the vehicle by accident.
Common Situations Where Drivers Need to Stop Much Sooner
Drivers should not operate a vehicle when they are tired. If the driver is tired for any reason and has a slow reaction time, they should account for this by creating a larger stopping distance.
Also, while a driver shouldn't drive on unsafe tires, such as an old tire with a worn-out thread, they must allow themselves time to slow down sooner if they do operate a vehicle on unsafe tires.
Why Liability Matters
Liability is important in certain states where the party who is considered at fault is liable for an accident. After the accident, you may file a claim with your own auto insurance so you can be compensated. However, if you are found to not be at fault, your auto insurance provider will be reimbursed and you will then be able to avoid higher auto insurance rates. A personal injury attorney can help you gather the evidence to prove liability.
Reasons to Take Legal Action
You may be entitled to compensation beyond what your auto insurance provider can offer you. Through the at-fault driver's liability insurance, you may be entitled to compensation for lost wages and medical expenses. However, you will need to prove that you suffered these damages to be eligible.
You will also be entitled to pain and suffering. These damages cover the physical pain and mental anguish you have experienced due to the accident. This is determined by taking your medical bills and multiplying the figure based on how severe your pain happens to be.
For more info, contact a local personal injury attorney.
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