Berkeley Car Accidents Lawyer
Berkeley Car Accidents
The impact of two vehicles colliding with one another can produce disastrous results for passengers of both vehicles. Cars can be completely destroyed in a crash and passengers can suffer catastrophic injuries, including death. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's (NHTSA) statistics for 2009 show more than 3,000 motorists died in California car accidents. Additional statistics provided by the NHTSA show more than 37,000 motorists were killed in motor vehicle collisions across the nation in 2008. For expert legal counsel regarding any type of auto crash, contact a Berkeley car accident lawyer at Estey Bomberger.
Why Do Berkeley Car Crashes Happen?
What causes a Berkeley car crash to happen? Research conducted by the American Automobile Association (AAA) reveals that the greatest threat to drivers is other drivers. AAA research estimates that as many as 50 percent of all auto crashes can be attributed to driver negligence. The most common forms of driver negligence include:
Driving distracted
There are many distractions for today's driver, but several studies reveal texting and rubbernecking (gawking at a traffic collision) account for the largest number of distraction-related accidents. Talking on a cell phone is also another serious distraction for drivers, which is why California banned the use of a handheld phone while driving.
Driver fatigue
The NHTSA reports tired drivers account for approximately 100,000 U.S. accidents every year. Drivers are most at risk for becoming fatigued during the hours of the night and early morning, but an accident caused by a driver who falls asleep at the wheel can happen anytime.
Driving drunk
In 2009, almost 33 percent of all the state's driving fatalities were alcohol-related. Although drunken driving accidents do occur during the week, the number of alcohol-related accidents increases on the weekends (especially during holiday weekends).
Speeding driver
Speeding decreases stopping time and increases the force that is released in a crash. Also, speeding drivers are more likely to lose control of a vehicle than a driver who is obeying the speed limit.
Aggressive driver
What is an aggressive driver? An aggressive driver may exhibit several distinct behaviors, such as tailgating, displaying rude gestures, yelling, flashing head lights, violating another drivers' right of way, swerving in and out of lanes and even physically assaulting a fellow motorist.
Berkeley Car Accident Injuries
Blunt trauma head injuries, spinal cord injuries, abdominal injuries and internal organ injuries are among the types of injuries a motorist can sustain in a collision. Victims are also frequently treated for amputation (loss of limb) injuries, broken bone injuries, neck injuries, back injuries, bruises, cuts, whiplash and scrapes. Victims' injuries can vary greatly, depending on the type of crash. For example, the dynamics of a rear-end collision are more likely to cause neck injuries, such as whiplash or nerve root damage.
Don't Wait to Call a Berkeley Car Accident Attorney at Estey Bomberger
Many motorists don't realize the state only gives victims a certain amount of time to file a personal injury or wrongful death claim. Waiting to contact the law firm of Estey Bomberger may jeopardize your ability to file a claim. It is important to understand that you will be denied the opportunity to file a claim once the time allowed has expired. After examining your case, our Berkeley car accident attorneys will make sure you meet all filing deadlines. Call (510) 978-4380 to discuss your case for free.