How Seemingly Simple Driving Errors Can Be Deadly

 Posted on November 08, 2024 in Car Accident

A recent crash in Arlington Heights claimed the life of a motorcyclist. News stories reported that citations were issued to a teen driver for failing to yield the right of way or lower speed to avoid a collision. According to the National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration, driver error causes approximately 94 percent of traffic accidents.

If you are injured or a loved one loses her life because of someone else’s negligence, you deserve compensation. An experienced lawyer from Newland & Newland, LLP can help you with your personal injury or wrongful death claim.

What Is Negligence in Personal Injury Cases?

In legal matters, negligence means not behaving like a reasonable person would, either by action or omission, in an identical situation. Every driver has a duty of care to drive safely to reduce the risk of causing accidents that harm others. Most personal injury claims require proof of negligence, showing these statements are all true:

• Someone owed you a duty of care.

• That party failed to provide their duty of care.

• The failure caused an accident that injured you.

• The accident resulted in damages, which are specific kinds of accident-related losses.

Some car accidents have multiple causes and at-fault parties. In Illinois, you can obtain compensation after an auto collision if you are less than 51 percent at fault. However, the amount you could receive is lowered in accordance with your degree of fault. For instance, if you are 20 percent at fault, your total damages will be reduced by 20 percent.

What Are Common Negligent Driver Errors?

Certain behaviors increase the likelihood of causing a crash that could injure or kill others, such as:

• Failing to yield the right of way

• Following too closely

• Speeding or driving too fast for conditions

• Distracted driving or inattention

• Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs

• Running red lights or stop signs

• Failing to check blind spots before merging

• Improper passing

• Drowsy driving

• Knowingly driving an unsafe vehicle

• Ignoring traffic laws

• Reckless or aggressive driving

You might think these behaviors are simple mistakes that are easy to fix. In some cases, they do not have repercussions. However, the accidents they cause have inescapable consequences, including injuries, property damage, and death.

Are Drivers Always At Fault for Motor Vehicle Collisions?

Drivers are not the only negligent parties who can contribute to causing collisions. Other potentially liable parties include:

• Cargo loaders who fail to balance or secure loads correctly

• Vehicle maintenance companies that fail to perform routine maintenance or repairs

• Parts manufacturers that design, produce, or sell defective auto parts

• Pedestrians who jaywalk

• Government entities that do not maintain roads, bridges, and street lights adequately

An investigation should determine your accident’s contributing factors and the responsible parties. Your legal team from Newland & Newland, LLP will investigate, gather supporting evidence, and work to help you collect as much compensation as you deserve.

Call Our Experienced Arlington Heights, IL Car Accident Lawyers

Newland & Newland, LLP is honored to be recognized as being among the nation’s top one percent of attorneys. Our decades of experience mean we know how to handle your personal injury claim effectively. Call us at 847-797-8000 to schedule your free consultation with our dedicated Rolling Meadows, IL personal injury attorneys.