Unsafe lane changes can cause serious accidents. They can result in injuries, damaged vehicles, and even fatalities. If you have been involved in an accident brought about by an unsafe lane change, contact a Los Angeles DUI Attorney today.
CA Vehicle Code 22107 Defined
According to California Vehicle Code 22107, it is prohibited to turn a vehicle from a direct course on the roadway or to move right or left unless such movement can be made with reasonable safety. If any other vehicles are likely to be affected by the action, one must provide an appropriate signal.
In an Unsafe Lane Change Accident, Who Is at Fault?
According to the law in California, the person who changed lanes is typically responsible for the accident. It is only legal to change lanes when they can make the change safely. This means making sure that there are no cars to collide with in the other lane and signaling appropriately.
There are exceptions to every rule. Occasionally, the other driver involved in the accident is at fault. Here are a few examples.
- If two cars are driving parallel and both decide to change lanes.
- A driver becomes distracted and drifts into the other lane and into the path of the driver who is legally and safely changing lanes.
- If two or more cars are turning and one of the vehicles is in the wrong lane.
- Using excessive speed can cause lane change accidents.
- Aggressively driving to prevent the other driver from changing lanes should put the aggressive driver squarely at fault.
Responsibilities of the At-Fault Driver
If one is found at fault in an unsafe lane-changing accident, the person at fault will be responsible for paying for the damages incurred in the accident. These damages could include vehicle repair or replacement, injuries, medical bills, and long-term losses. The car insurance company for the negligent driver will be responsible for these costs.
Avoiding Unsafe Lane Change Accidents
When driving a motor vehicle, a driver should only perform lane changes when the conditions are safe. The driver should use their mirrors, check their blindspots and look over their shoulders to ensure no traffic in the other lane. A turn signal or a hand signal should be used before switching lanes.
Drivers who are not changing lanes should be watchful and drive defensively. Awareness of one’s surroundings and if other cars are being driven unsafely can aid in avoiding lane change accidents. Car crashes can be prevented by vigilance, driving the speed limit, and not driving aggressively.
Taking these precautions can eliminate most lane change wrecks.
Determining Responsibility for Unsafe Lane Change Accidents
A driver other than the one changing lanes could be determined responsible for the accident if drunk, reckless, speeding, or careless. Although the driver who caused the accident is typically the one changing lanes. The police officers at the scene will interview witnesses, examine the cars and any tire marks and damage to conclude what happened, and assign blame.
It is essential to call a Los Angeles DUI Attorney if you have been involved in an unsafe lane change collision. We can help you by investigating the circumstances surrounding the crash. By reviewing the evidence, police reports, and witness testimony, we can assess what happened and present it to the involved insurance companies in a way that is most beneficial to you.
Unsafe Lane Change Accident Lawyers Can Help
A professional experienced in automobile accidents can help you receive the compensation you deserve after an unsafe lane change accident. It is vital to call an attorney as soon as an accident happens. Insurance companies do not want to pay, but we can help.
Some examples of severe physical and psychological injuries that we seek financial compensation for are listed below.
- Fatalities that are considered wrongful deaths
- Head injuries resulting in brain damage
- Broken bones, dislocations, sprains, and fractures
- Injuries to the neck and back, such as spinal cord injuries, whiplashes, and damages like herniated discs
- Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and long-term anxiety
- Burns if the car ignited in the crash.
- Scars and disfiguring injuries that often require cosmetic surgery
- Amputation of limbs
- Mobility issues and loss of independence
- Loss of enjoyment of life
Insurance Companies Want to Avoid Paying You
Insurance adjusters employed by the insurance agency are there to reduce the amount of money that their agency is responsible for paying. They will use shameless techniques to avoid their obligations.
Some of these tactics might include placing fault on the accident victim. They often cause unwarranted delays in paying claims simply to delay them. An insurance company can usually be counted on to deny legitimate claims or offer disrespectfully small financial compensation.
An unsafe lane change lawyer will be able to recognize these tactics and will demand that the insurance company accept accountability and that the settlement offer you receive is a generous one.
Types of Damages You May Receive
Compensatory and punitive damages may be available to you after an accident caused by an unsafe lane change. A Los Angeles DUI Attorney will review your case and make sure all the details of your case are covered when negotiating with an insurance company.
- Compensatory damages include damages and financial losses caused by the accident. Future earnings, medical costs, career disruption, insurance premium increases, and more will be considered when seeking a fair settlement.
- Punitive damages may be awarded to punish the driver’s negligence and work as a deterrent for driver carelessness. A jury may award such injuries if they deem the responsible party as causing harm because of reckless behavior.
Reach Out Today so We Can Begin Fighting for You
A Los Angeles DUI Attorney will offer you experienced guidance and will aggressively seek the settlement package to which you are entitled. Insurance companies know all the tricks to avoid paying you. Fortunately for you, so do we. Contact us today.