Unfortunately, car accidents can be a common occurrence. They can happen anywhere, at any time, to anyone. Every driver on the road has an obligation to drive responsibly. This ensures their safety as well as that of those around them on the road. However, people are subject to human error and can make a mistake while driving. It is possible to become distracted for one second and cause an accident. Many serious accidents can stem from driver negligence and cause life-changing injuries as well as sometimes death. After being involved in an accident, an injured party may wish to hold the negligent driver responsible. In doing so, it is important to contact an experienced attorney to discuss the options available to them.
Types of Negligence
There are several different ways driver negligence may appear on the road. These actions usually fall under two main categories: dangerous driving and distracted driving. A driver can be found negligent when they do not fulfill their obligation to be safe on the road. When they do not follow the rules of the road, they engage in dangerous driving. Â Actions that can be categorized as such 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.
Part of following the rules of the road is ensuring the road receives a driver’s undivided attention. Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of accidents in the United States. A common distraction that is seen today is the use of a cell phone or electronic device while driving. A driver may use their phone behind the wheel as navigation, to make or receive phone calls, listen to music, send a text or email, or search the internet. Other distractions that take place in a car may include eating, looking for something in the car, or speaking to other passengers while driving.
Proving Negligence
Drivers who act negligently can cause great harm to others sharing the road with them. They can cause severe injuries or even death to another person. In the event that they do, the injured party often wishes to hold the negligent driver responsible. In doing so, they must satisfy the “burden of proof” by providing evidence of negligence. This requires the evidence to prove the accident and the injuries sustained were a direct result of this negligence. Evidence for a case may 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
Stathis & Leonardis, LLC is an experienced personal injury law firm in Middlesex County, New Jersey that is committed to helping clients who have been hurt because of the negligence of another party. If you have been involved in a motor vehicle accident or were injured on another person’s property, contact our firm today.
