Every driver should understand the importance of speed limits. However, that does not mean every driver adheres to them. Speeding drivers are responsible for serious injuries every day. The consequences of these accidents are often severe, as almost one in three motor vehicle crash deaths in the U.S. involve speeding, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). If you have suffered an injury due to a speeding driver in Metairie, Louisiana, you may be entitled to compensation through legal action.
You are not obligated to work with an attorney on your injury claim but consider hiring one to help you pursue a lawsuit. Litigation in personal injury cases can be complex, and a minor mistake could prevent you from recovering the compensation you may deserve. The personal injury lawyers from the Morris Bart law firm can help. A Metairie accident caused by a speeding lawyer can handle your case while you focus on your health.
How Speeding May Increase the Risk of an Accident
Posted speed limits are in place for a reason. However, if a driver exceeds the speed limit, they increase the chance of a collision with another motorist.
Figures compiled by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) show speeding is a significant factor in many accidents. According to the NHTSA, more than 11,258 people were killed in 2020 on American roadways due to speeding.
There are many reasons why traveling at speeds above the designated limit could be dangerous. First and foremost, traveling at high speed reduces a driver’s ability to control their vehicle. This is especially true in inclement weather or if someone navigates curves in the road.
Speeding also reduces the efficiency of a vehicle’s safety features. Every vehicle on the road must meet minimum safety standards, but they are most efficient if a driver travels at the proper speed. The faster a driver goes, the less effective systems like crash prevention, airbags, and seat belts may be in an accident.
Increased stopping distance is also an important factor. Most drivers can estimate the amount of roadway they need to come to a complete stop. The faster a car travels, the more distance it may require to stop. This increases the chance of rear-end accidents and stop sign or red light violations.
High-speed accidents are also more devastating compared to other types of crashes. The higher the speed a car travels, the greater the impact it will have. High-speed accidents are more likely to result in permanent or fatal injuries.
Finally, speeding limits a driver’s possible reaction time. Road conditions may change instantly, and drivers need time to respond to avoid a collision. The amount of time needed to react to changing road conditions is shorter if a driver is speeding.
For a free legal consultation with a Speeding Accident lawyer serving Metairie, call 800-537-8185
Why Drivers Speed
Speeding drivers put their safety at risk, and they also endanger nearby motorists as well as pedestrians. Some of the common excuses given for speeding in Orleans Parish include:
- Running late
- Traffic congestion
- Aggressive driving
- Street racing
- Avoiding police
The threat of speeding drivers is not going away any time soon. With more cars on the road than ever, the number of potentially dangerous motorists on Metairie roadways continues to grow. The good news is you may be able to hold them accountable through legal action if their negligence results in an injury.
Pursuing Compensation You May Be Entitled in an Accident Caused by Speeding
Depending on the severity of your accident, the compensation available through a personal injury claim could be substantial. Some of the damages you may be entitled to include:
- Medical bills. Many people injured in a collision with a speeding driver usually incur medical debt. The cost of emergency room treatments, surgeries, and follow-up care can be overwhelming for most people, especially if they cannot return to work. A successful injury claim may ensure the at-fault driver is responsible for your medical expenses.
- Pain and suffering. The physical pain and suffering you may experience following an accident can also lead to a claim for financial compensation. Unlike medical bills, the value of these claims is subjective based on any given case.
- Lost wages. If you missed work due to your accident injuries, you may be entitled to compensation for your missed paycheck. This type of compensation can also cover any future diminished earning capacity.
- Property damage. Not all compensation you may be entitled to is directly related to bodily injuries. You also have the right to seek compensation for damage to your personal property. In accidents caused by speeding, this typically involves the cost of repairing or replacing your vehicle.
- Disfigurement. The scars from some injuries may never heal. Whether you have scarring from a medical procedure or burns from the crash itself, you may be entitled to compensation for any disfigurement you have experienced.
The degree of compensation you may be entitled to from the at-fault party in your accident caused by speeding will depend on the scope of your injuries. A Metairie accident caused by speeding lawyer can help you evaluate your claim and guide you on what to expect during the litigation process.
See a Doctor After an Accident
Accidents caused by speeding can result in severe injuries. The best way to protect your health and case for compensation is to see a doctor as soon as possible. They can assess your injuries and prescribe a treatment plan.
It is’s in your best interests to also follow through with this treatment plan. The last thing you want is for an insurer to undervalue or deny your claim. They could argue you contributed to your losses if you delay or forgo medical treatment.
Click to contact our Metairie Car Accident Lawyers today
You May Be Entitled to Compensation Following an Accident Caused by Speeding
Hiring an attorney following an accident with a speeding driver in New Orleans East may greatly help your case. A Metairie accident caused by speeding lawyer can help protect your legal rights during settlement negotiations or a court trial.
If you are ready to move forward with your injury claim, the team from the Morris Bart law firm can help. Call us for a free consultation. We work on a contingency-fee-basis, so you pay no attorney’s fees unless you win your case.
Questions?Call 800-537-8185
to find a Morris Bart office near you.
