Common Causes of Motor Vehicle Accidents and How a Lawyer Can Help
Motor vehicle accidents are an unfortunate reality on New Jersey's busy roads. Whether commuting to work, running errands, or taking a weekend road trip, the risk of a motor vehicle accident is always present. But what exactly causes these accidents, and—perhaps more importantly—what can you do if you find yourself involved in one?
If you're wondering how to navigate the aftermath of a motor vehicle accident, keep reading. This blog will explore the most common causes of accidents in New Jersey and explain how a motor vehicle accident attorney can support you through the possible legal challenges.
1. The Most Common Causes of Motor Vehicle Accidents
- Distracted Driving
Have you ever glanced at your phone at a red light or adjusted your GPS mid-drive? Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of motor vehicle accidents in New Jersey. According to the New Jersey Division of Highway Traffic Safety, behaviors such as texting, eating, or even chatting with passengers can take your focus off the road—and in a split second, disaster can strike.
How to Mitigate It:
Keep your phone out of reach while driving.
Set your GPS and music preferences before you start the car.
Focus 100% on the road.
- Speeding
Speed limits exist because they’re designed to keep drivers, passengers, and pedestrians safe. However, many motorists exceed these limits, particularly on highways like the New Jersey Turnpike or Garden State Parkway. Speeding reduces your control of the vehicle and increases the severity of an accident if one occurs.
How to Mitigate It:
Stick to posted speed limits, especially during adverse weather or in construction zones.
Allow extra time to reach your destination to avoid feeling rushed.
- Driving Under the Influence
Driving under the influence (DUI) of drugs or alcohol impairs judgment and reaction times, increasing the likelihood of a motor vehicle accident. According to statistics, drunk driving accidents remain an alarming issue in New Jersey despite strict DUI laws.
How to Mitigate It:
Never drive if you’ve consumed alcohol or drugs.
Use ride-sharing apps like Uber or Lyft, or designate a sober driver.
Report impaired drivers to local law enforcement.
2. How a Motor Vehicle Accidents Lawyer Can Help
Even with all the precautions in place, accidents happen. If you’ve been in a motor vehicle accident in New Jersey, working with an experienced motor vehicle accident lawyer can make all the difference. Here’s how an attorney can help you through this challenging time.
- Understanding Your Rights
New Jersey's car accident laws can be tricky, especially regarding liability and insurance claims. A motor vehicle accident attorney can help you understand your rights and ensure you're treated fairly.
- Proving Liability
If a fault in the accident is disputed, your attorney will gather evidence, such as police reports, witness statements, and traffic camera footage, to help prove who was responsible.
- Filing a Lawsuit
Sometimes, a fair settlement cannot be reached through negotiation. If so, your motor vehicle accident lawyer can file a lawsuit and represent your interests in court.
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