The Dangers of Speeding Accidents in Erie, PA
Excessive speed or driving too fast for conditions can result in an expensive traffic ticket. However, it can also result in a tragic car accident. Speeding has been a factor in roughly one-third of traffic accidents since 2007. The deaths from speeding accidents increased in 2016 by four percent, while the number of traffic fatalities as a whole increased by 5.6 percent. Speeding as a factor in a traffic accident can significantly increase the chance of death or serious injuries.
In the blog below, our Erie accident attorney discusses:
- The Consequences of Speeding
- Common Injuries and Damages Caused by Speeding Accidents
- What You Should Do After an Erie Speeding Accident
The Consequences of Speeding
Speeding can have several consequences that motorists may not realize.
- Injuries may be more severe in a collision when speed is a factor;
- Speeding increases the risk for loss of vehicle control;
- It takes longer for the driver to stop the vehicle;
- Equipment designed to protect occupants in a crash does not perform as effectively at higher speeds;
- Speed-related accidents can result in higher economic losses; and,
- Speeding increases fuel consumption, thereby increasing travel costs.
Drivers exceed speed limits or drive too fast for conditions for a variety of reasons. Some motorists may be in a hurry because they are running late while other drivers are aggressive drivers who speed regardless of conditions. Whatever the reason may be for disregarding the law, a driver who speeds places himself and others at risk for serious injuries and death.
Common Injuries and Damages Caused by Speeding Accidents
A speeding accident can result in a variety of injuries. Some studies state that the severity of injuries is related to the speed the vehicles are traveling at the time of the collision. Speeding accident injuries that could result in long-term disabilities or life-threatening conditions include:
- Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
- Amputations
- Severe burns
- Internal bleeding and damage to internal organs
- Compound fractures and broken bones
- Head and brain injuries, including concussions and traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
- Neck and back injuries
When a speeding driver causes a collision, the individual may be held liable for the injuries and losses caused by the crash. A speeding ticket issued to the driver may be a factor, but it may not be sufficient to prove fault.
Your Erie car accident attorney investigates to determine all factors that contributed to the cause of the crash.
Once fault is established, you could receive compensation for damages including:
- Property damage
- Loss of income
- Medical expenses
- Personal care
- Travel expenses
- Physical suffering and pain
- Disability and impairments
- Scarring and disfigurement
- Mental anguish and emotional distress
- Other economic losses
Several factors impact the value of your insurance claim, including the severity of your injuries and your economic losses. Our Erie car accident attorney and legal team work with you to document your losses to increase your chance of receiving full compensation for all damages.
What You Should Do After an Erie Speeding Accident
If a speeding driver causes a car crash, you should treat the accident as you would any other crash. Call 911 to request emergency assistance. Remain at the accident scene until the police complete their investigation. If possible, take photographs of the accident scene and gather other information, such as the names and contact information of eyewitnesses.
As soon as possible, consult an Erie car accident attorney to discuss the next steps you need to take to file an insurance claim. We strongly urge you to speak with someone on our legal team before you discuss the claim with an insurance adjuster for the other driver.
Erie Car Accident Lawyers Helping Accident Victims Seek Compensation for Claims
Contact The Travis Law Firm at (800) 401-2066 to request a free legal consultation with our Erie car accident attorney.