What’s an Example of Negligence in a Car Accident?
Whether caused by distraction, fatigue, or a drunk driver, car accidents have one element in common: negligence. Defined as failing to use ordinary care in performing a task, negligence costs the lives of over 42,000 motorists annually. When you exhibit negligent behavior behind the wheel, someone is bound to pay the price.
If you have fallen victim to a car accident, the Harrisburg personal injury attorneys at Mette are ready to advocate on your behalf.
Speeding
In 2022, 12,151 people died as a result of speeding. People speed for several reasons, from running late to accommodating a packed schedule to making up for lost time after being stuck in traffic. The posted speed is not ignored but is implemented to keep other motorists and pedestrians safe.
Distracted Driving
Any time you take your attention away from what is in front of you, you are participating in distracted driving. Many distractions exist while driving, but a vehicle operator must give his or her full attention to the road. When you change the radio station, fiddle with your navigational system, or apply your make-up, you use less care than is necessary to keep others safe.
Fatigued Driving
Fatigued driving has become a prevalent issue in our society, causing about 328,000 crashes each year and 6,400 fatalities. One out of every 25 drivers admit to operating a vehicle at one time or another without getting adequate sleep. Lack of sleep has been attributed to reduced reasoning skills and slowed reflexes, all critical when operating a vehicle. When you are sleep-deprived, you cannot use the level of care required to keep yourself and your passengers out of harm’s way.
Drunk Driving
Taking the lives of over 13,000 people each year, consuming alcohol, and getting behind the wheel is a prime example of negligence. The Keystone State and most states (except Utah) illegalize the operation of a motor vehicle if a motorist has a blood alcohol level of 0.08% or greater. Even at a BAC of 0.08%, an individual will likely experience coordination issues, balance problems, and impaired judgment.
Tailgating and Other Aggressive Behavior
A motorist who follows other drivers too closely, races to avoid a red light, and passes illegally is displaying aggressive behavior. Aggressive behavior puts everyone’s lives at risk and can escalate into road rage, which is punishable by fines, license suspension, and, in some circumstances, jail time.
Negligent Drivers Put Others at Risk
Driving a vehicle requires full attention, unencumbered by distractions, intoxication, or exhaustion. A motorist who fails to take proper care should be held liable for any accidents or injuries that occur as a result. At Mette Attorneys at Law, our personal injury attorney will gather evidence of your accident-related damages, which may include economic and non-economic losses.
Economic damages are financial losses that take money out of your bank account, including lost wages, lost earning capacity, and medical expenses. Additionally, you may be able to recover noneconomic damages, which are non-monetary losses that impact your quality of life. These often include pain and suffering, mental anguish, and infliction of emotional distress.
Not every insurance will compensate accident victims for noneconomic damages. If you have full tort coverage in Pennsylvania, you will be eligible to seek noneconomic damages. Our personal injury attorney at Mette Attorneys at Law can review your auto policy to determine what compensation you may be eligible to claim.
Reach Out to Our Harrisburg Personal Injury Attorney Now
Car accident victims often do not understand the types and amounts of compensation they may be able to receive. If you have been in a crash in Harrisburg or the surrounding area, do not hesitate to contact our Harrisburg personal injury attorney. To learn more, contact us online or by phone at (717) 231-5219 to arrange your initial consultation.