A car accident is any incident in which an automobile strikes another vehicle or fixed object. Such collisions often result in severe injuries and death. One motorist may be charged with criminal negligence if judged negligent in one of the riskiest accidents—head-on collisions.
Definition of a Car Accident
An automobile accident is when two or more motor vehicles collide. It can also include fixed objects, such as pedestrians or buildings, and can result in significant injury and property damage. Some car accidents can be deadly, while others involve only a minor dented fender. Car accidents can be horrifying and confusing regardless of how they happen. Understanding the definition of a car accident is essential to help you through this difficult time.
Some safety advocates have criticized using the term “car accident” to describe vehicular crashes, arguing that referring to these incidents as accidents implies that they are unavoidable and not caused by driver negligence. Most fatal car accidents result from intoxicated, speeding, distracted, or careless drivers. This characterization can impede the recovery process for crash victims and their loved ones by preventing them from assigning blame and working through their trauma.
Common Causes of Car Accidents
There are numerous causes of car accidents that can lead to severe injuries. Some of the most common are driving while distracted, speeding and reckless driving, alcohol or drug use while driving, poor weather conditions, and vehicle malfunctions. The majority of automobile collisions are avoidable. By driving safely, according to the rules of the road, and maintaining your car in excellent condition, you can help minimize the incidence of collisions.
Other factors that can cause a car accident include:
- Rubbernecking, when drivers look at sunsets, other cars on the road, or flashy billboards.
- Tired driving, which often happens when people drive late at night.
- Defective auto parts include faulty tires, airbag defects, seatbelt failure, or exploding gas tanks.
These cases often require a knowledgeable car accident attorney to investigate the situation and seek appropriate compensation for your losses. Taking the time to make an official police report immediately after the collision can also be vital in establishing what caused your accident.
Damages Associated with Car Accidents
Severe casualties and significant property damage can result from auto accidents. They can also have a devastating emotional impact on accident victims and their loved ones. Sometimes, a driver may be held liable for the damages they cause. It can be because they fail to follow the law or their negligent driving behavior. If the car driver that struck you as you crossed the street while they were backing out of a parking place was inattentive or otherwise distracted, they might be held accountable for your harm and property damage. However, assigning a percentage of fault to the at-fault driver is unfair if you have rare bone conditions that exacerbate your injuries. Speak with an experienced vehicle accident attorney about your situation. A lawyer can help you determine your compensation for your losses.
Punitive Damages in Car Accident Cases
Many car accidents result in serious injuries or death. They also can cause property damage. Car accident injuries can physically and psychologically impact victims and their loved ones. They can cause pain and discomfort, which may require medical care and limit a person’s ability to work or perform everyday activities. People who suffer from car accident injuries may be entitled to damages for their losses. Those damages generally include compensatory and punitive damages. Compensation for damages includes the cost of medical treatment, lost income and lost earning capacity (which may include future earnings), and other financial losses. Punitive damages are meant to punish an accused party for outrageous misconduct that goes beyond ordinary negligence or recklessness. For example, playing a game of chicken on a highway at high speeds involves gross negligence or recklessness that could warrant a punitive award.
