Every day, many drivers hurry on the road, driving aggressively and putting everyone at risk. This behavior creates serious legal problems for accident victims in Burbank. It often happens due to distractions, speeding, or reckless decisions and can lead to severe accidents. People can suffer from different injuries like whiplash or brain injuries, which is why having legal help from a Burbank car accident lawyer is so important.
What are the Common Causes of Aggressive Driving?
Aggressive driving is a big problem that can make our roads unsafe. It can start with small annoyances and quickly turn into road rage. In busy cities like Burbank, heavy traffic can cause drivers to act aggressively. This includes things like tailgating, yelling, and making rude gestures like flipping people off. Losing your temper can lead to dangerous driving and increase the chances of accidents. Aggressive driving can also lead to serious punishments, like losing your driver's license and paying large fines. This is why it's important to stay calm and patient when you’re driving.
Distracted driving
Distracted driving is a leading cause of serious accidents, occurring when drivers engage in activities like texting, eating, or applying makeup while behind the wheel. In California, using cell phones and other devices while driving, unless hands-free, is illegal. Just a moment of distraction can result in dangerous crashes; in fact, over 3,100 people died in the U.S. from distracted driving in 2019, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Other distractions, such as talking on the phone or adjusting the radio, can similarly divert attention from the road and lead to devastating accidents.
Speeding
When drivers speed, swerve, or don't follow the rules, they put everyone on the road at risk. In Burbank, aggressive driving can lead to serious car accidents that leave victims hurt and confused about what to do next.
Reckless behavior
Reckless driving is when someone drives in a dangerous way. This can include speeding, not using turn signals, tailgating, and running red lights. These actions show that the driver doesn't care about safety on the road. A big issue related to reckless driving is driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, which causes about one-third of all traffic deaths. These reckless actions often lead to accidents and can make the driver legally responsible for any injuries or damages.
Types of Car Accidents Resulting from Aggressive Driving in Burbank
Aggressive driving can lead to some serious car accidents. Here are some common types of accidents caused by reckless behavior on the road:
- Rear-end Collisions
- Often happen when a driver is tailgating or stops suddenly.
- Can cause serious injuries like whiplash.
- If you’re in this type of accident, consult a lawyer for help with compensation.
- Side-impact Accidents (T-bone)
- Usually occur at intersections when someone doesn’t yield the right of way.
- More dangerous due to less protection on the sides of vehicles.
- A personal injury lawyer can help prove fault and get you compensation.
- Multi-vehicle Pileups
- Can happen in bad weather or due to aggressive driving.
- Often results in severe injuries and emotional trauma.
- Due to the complexity of claims, having an experienced lawyer is essential to handle the situation.
Potential Injuries from Aggressive Driving Accidents
When someone drives aggressively, it often leads to more significant injuries than would occur with simple negligence.
-Soft Tissue Injuries
- Affect muscles and tendons (e.g., sprains, strains).
- Can cause chronic pain and limit movement.
- May need therapy for healing.
- Whiplash and Spinal Injuries
- Whiplash occurs from sudden head movement, causing neck pain and headaches.
- Spinal injuries can include herniated disks or broken bones, leading to serious issues.
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs)
- Result from a hard hit to the head.
- Can cause concussions or severe brain bleeding.
- Require extensive medical help.
Why its Important to Hire Legal Counsel after an Accident
- Get the Money You Deserve: A good lawyer helps you seek compensation for your injuries.
- Know Your Rights: Lawyers understand the laws and protect your rights after an accident.
- Time Limits: In California, you have two years to file the right legal proceedings, so act fast!
- Avoid Mistakes: A lawyer helps you avoid saying you’re at fault too soon.
- Handle Insurance Claims: They can deal with the other driver’s insurance and help if they deny your claim.
- Prove Aggressive Driving: Lawyers use evidence like witness accounts and dashcam videos to show the other driver was reckless.
- See a Doctor: It's essential to get medical help and file a police report after an accident.
- Expert Guidance: Your lawyer knows the laws around aggressive driving and can protect you from penalties.
- Don’t Go It Alone: An experienced lawyer can make navigating the legal process easier and get you the compensation you need.
Steps to Take After an Aggressive Driving Car Accident in Burbank
Here’s a guide to help you figure out what to do after a car accident efficiently and effectively.
Ensuring Safety and Seeking Medical Attention
First, check yourself and your passengers for injuries. If anyone is hurt, move to a safe spot and call 911 for help. Even if you feel okay, go to a doctor right away. Some injuries, like brain or spinal injuries, might not show symptoms right away but can be serious later. Getting medical help is important for both your health and any legal claims you might make later. Remember, in California, you have two years to file a claim, so don’t wait too long to get medical care and legal advice.
Documenting the Accident Scene
After ensuring everyone is safe, it's important to document the scene of the accident. Use your phone to take pictures of the cars, any damage, and any injuries. Also, capture the road conditions, traffic signs, and any debris. This information helps show what happened and who was at fault. Make sure to talk to witnesses and get their statements while their memories are fresh. Their accounts can really help your case. A good car accident lawyer can help you keep this evidence safe and ask for any video from nearby cameras in Burbank to support your claim.
Contacting Law Enforcement
It’s very important to call the police after an accident. They will write an official report that is key for any injury claims and dealing with insurance. This report includes what the officers saw and statements from witnesses, which helps support your story. Make sure to get the case number so you can access the report later. Also, avoid giving too many details about the accident until the police finish their investigation to prevent misunderstandings.
Notifying Your Insurance Provider
After an accident, it’s important to let your insurance company know right away, but don’t admit any fault. Just state the facts about what happened. It’s a good idea to talk to a Burbank auto accident lawyer before giving a detailed statement. They can help you deal with the insurance company and make sure you get the right compensation for your damages and injuries.
Having a lawyer can also make it easier for you if you need to talk to the other driver’s insurance carrier. Following the right steps can help you get the most support while you recover. Remember, experienced personal injury lawyers in Burbank are there to help guide you to the receipt of fair compensation.
What Influences How Much You'll Get in a Car Accident Case?
1. Injuries Sustained: The severity of your injuries plays a big role in how much compensation you might receive. More serious injuries typically lead to higher payouts.
2. Medical Expenses: Your medical bills, including hospital stays and treatments, can greatly affect your compensation. Keep track of all your expenses!
3. Lost Wages: If you had to miss work because of your injuries, you might be able to claim those lost wages.
4. Property Damage: The cost to repair or replace your vehicle will also be considered when calculating compensation.
5. Fault: Who was at fault for the accident can impact your compensation. If the other driver was primarily responsible, you may be able to claim more.
Our dedicated legal team at the Law Offices of Adrianos Facchetti can help you get maximum compensation.
FAQs about Legal Representation
If you’ve been involved in an accident due to aggressive driving in Burbank, seeking a knowledgeable and passionate legal representative is crucial. Let’s tackle some of the most common questions you might have!
How to choose the right attorney?
Choosing the right lawyer is very important after a car accident. A local Burbank attorney knows the area and the laws, which can help your case a lot.
It's smart to hire a car accident lawyer soon after the accident. They can negotiate with your insurance company to get you the best payout. Many lawyers work on a “contingent fee” basis, which means you don’t pay them unless you win your case. This makes hiring a lawyer less stressful, so you can focus on getting better. A good attorney will protect your rights and help ensure you get the compensation you deserve.
What to expect during the legal process?
Going through the legal process after an accident can be stressful, but a good Burbank car accident lawyer will help you every step of the way. They will gather important evidence, like photos of the accident scene and police reports, to strengthen your case.
Your attorney will investigate what happened, looking at details like skid marks to figure out who was at fault. They will handle negotiations with the insurance company to get you a fair settlement. If needed, they can also prepare to take your case to court. Throughout this process, your lawyer will keep you updated and provide support, helping you deal with any feelings of stress or anxiety.
How long do I have to file a claim?
When you're in a car accident in California, timing is crucial for filing a personal injury claim. You usually have two years from the date of the accident to submit your claim. If you miss this deadline, you could lose your chance to get compensation. That's why it's important to act quickly and contact a skilled car accident lawyer right away. They will help you gather evidence and fill out paperwork correctly to protect your rights on time. Having the right lawyer makes the process easier, allowing you to focus on healing.
Call A Burbank Car Accident Lawyer for a Free Case Review
If you've fallen victim to a road rage accident, know that you have the right to seek justice and compensation. Aggressive drivers must be held accountable, especially when their reckless actions lead to severe injury or property damage. Law Offices of Adrianos Facchetti has secured millions of dollars for people just like you. We have a track record of success. Call today for a free case evaluation at 626-793-8607.
