Motor Vehicle Accidents - An Overview
Automobile accidents are often violent events that can cost you your health, the use of your car, and possibly even your life. The damage that results from a motor vehicle collision can end of costing you and your family money and make life exceedingly difficult. Auto accidents can occur for any number of reasons, including but not limited to; diver error, cell phone usage, inexperience, driving under the influence, negligence, dangerous road conditions or weather, and manufactures defects. Contacting a lawyer with the Law Offices of Howard Alan Kitay in San Diego can answer all your questions about your rights and options for your future.
At-Fault, Negligent, and Aggressive Drivers
After an automobile accident you probably have an idea about what or who caused the accident to occur. Unfortunately issues of fault can be complicated by many factors. You may feel that the other driver was at fault but have no idea how to go about proving your case. At the same time, the other driver may believe you are at fault and thus retained an attorney. The help of an experienced automobile accident lawyer can help you deal with insurance companies, prove the other driver’s negligence, get you compensation for your injuries, and defend you in court.
If the actions of the other driver caused your accident, proof of their guilt (and your innocence) could be in the police reports, witness statements, or evidence at the scene such as vehicle conditions and tire marks on the asphalt.
Some of the actions that cause or contribute to the following are:
- Failure to stop at a red light or stop sign
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Failure to drive defensively during dangerous weather conditions
- Excessive speed
- Being distracted by cell phone calls, texting, the radio, or even a passenger
- Failure to obey traffic laws
Sometimes drivers are more than merely negligent. This can occur when a driver intentionally acts with a disregard to the safety of others. Such behavior is often referred to as road rage and can have extremely dangerous consequences on the roadway. If is best to avoid confrontation with these types of drivers. You can keep yourself safe if you:
- Get out of the way
- Avoid eye contact
- Don’t make obscene gestures or challenge a road rage driver
- Pull off the road and stop a safe spot where you can call the police
Drunk Driving
Every 2 minutes someone in the United States is injured in an alcohol related car accident. The drunk driver will often face both criminal charges and a civil law suit. If you have been in a car accident and drugs or alcohol was involved you need a San Diego automobile accident attorney to explain your legal options.
Auto Accidents Not Caused by the Drivers
Although much more rare than accidents caused by human error, sometimes automobile accidents are solely caused by a vehicle manufacturer’s defect. Accidents can be caused by defects from failed brakes, faulty airbags, exploding tires, or stuck accelerators. There is a products liability law that may apply to you if you are injured because a product associated with your car created an unreasonable risk of harm to you while driving.
In addition, if your car was repaired improperly, leading to an accident, the mechanic their employer may be responsible for your injuries and the damage to your car. An automobile accident attorney can explain all your rights and answer any questions you may have.
Lastly, auto accidents may be caused by poorly maintained roads, sloppy construction, unreadable or neglected road signs, or similar problems with factors that are out of a driver’s control. Because the government is responsible for maintaining roads and safety conditions, they may be held liable for accidents caused by such factors. Special laws apply to the government in these types of situations so you will need an experienced automobile accident attorney to explain the law.
Schedule a Consultation
Time is often of the essence after a motor vehicle accident. The longer you wait the more difficult it may be to preserve your rights and obtain the compensation you deserve. Contact a San Diego automobile accident lawyer for your free consultation today. The Law Office of Howard Alan Kitay serves all of San Diego County and there are no fees until you collect your settlement.
- Overview
- Frequently asked questions
- What to do if you are in an accident
- Injuries and Compensation
- Insurance Do's and Dont's
- Uninsured/Underinsured Motorists
