Car accidents happen more frequently than most people realize. According to a recent report, during the 2013 calendar year Las Vegas had approximately 22,600 automobile accidents. More than half of them resulted in injuries. And that is just one city. Many of these accidents were caused by negligence. However, negligence can be something that is hard to prove. So how can an accident victim prove that their accident was caused by the negligence of another driver?
The Police Report
During the course of investigation, police officers will question witnesses, look at video surveillance tapes, and use forensic evidence to determine the cause of the accident. Things such as driving with excessive speed, driving in a reckless way, driving while talking on the telephone, ignoring traffic control devices, and failing to yield are just some of the things that may show up on the traffic report as proof of negligence on the part of the other driver.
Malfunctioning Car Equipment
By law, drivers are required and expected to keep their vehicle in working order. For example, it is illegal for an individual to operate a motor vehicle that has damaged or non-functioning headlights or brake lights. The brakes on the vehicle should be working. The blinkers on the vehicle should function properly. The automobile should have a horn that can be heard. If any of these things are not in place, it may be possible for the accident victim to prove that the accident was caused by negligence on the part of the other driver.
Driving While Under the Influence
If the accident was caused because the other driver was driving while intoxicated or while using prescription or illicit drugs, a strong case can be made for negligence on the part of the other driver. If you’ve been in a car accident with someone you suspect of being intoxicated, consider enlisting an accident attorney to help you get your due compensation.
Failure to Control Their Vehicle
The law expects a driver to be alert and to be able to be on the lookout for other vehicles. It is also expected that a driver will be able to maintain control of their vehicle under normal driving circumstances. Negligence may be inferred if a driver loses control of their vehicle and overshoots a turn, wanders into opposing traffic, or drives off the road and there were no extenuating circumstances that explain this loss of control.
Operating a motor vehicle is a large responsibility. Automobile accidents can have a devastating effect on the life of both the victim and the one who caused the accident. This underscores the importance of driving with diligence and avoiding anything that could be considered negligence.
About the author: A recent college graduate from University of San Francisco, Anica Oaks loves dogs, the ocean, and anything outdoor-related. She was raised in a big family, so she’s used to putting things to a vote. Also, cartwheels are her specialty. You can connect with Anica here.
