Causes of Accidents on Road Trips

Monday, January 13, 2020

Causes of Accidents on Road Trips

Written by Malman Law, reviewed by Steve J. Malman.

The holiday season is a time that many people enjoy taking road trips to visit far-away relatives and friends. Long trips, however, can present many hazards to motor vehicle operators and their passengers. In some instances, these hazards cannot be avoided because they are caused by other motor vehicle drivers. 

Sometimes, no matter how careful, safe, and prudent a driver is, serious motor vehicle collisions can still occur on long road trips. If you are injured in a motor vehicle accident that occurs on a road trip in or around Chicago, the experienced Chicago car accident lawyers at Malman Law are ready to assist you with every aspect of your personal injury claim or lawsuit. Give us a call today at (312) 629-0099 or contact us online to learn more about how we could assist you with filing a claim or lawsuit arising out of a motor vehicle collision. 

Distracted and Careless Drivers 

In some instances, other motor vehicle drivers are the source of motor vehicle collisions on road trips. The number of different ways that motor vehicle operators can be negligent is almost too numerous to count. Some of the most common examples of motor vehicle driver negligence include the following:

• Distracted driving – Distracted driving often takes the form of unlawful texting while driving or unlawful cell phone use while behind the wheel – such as by making a phone call without using the phone’s hands-free calling option. However, distracted driving can also include loud music, roughhousing in the car, and other distractions (and distracting individuals) that are present in the vehicle – and that divert the driver’s attention away from the road.
• Violating traffic laws – Illinois traffic laws are in place to decrease the chances of a motor vehicle accident while on the roadway. When drivers exceed the speed limit, make unsafe lane changes, and tailgate other drivers, they significantly increase their chances of causing a serious motor vehicle accident. 

Drunk Drivers

The State of Illinois recognizes the importance of sober driving and the serious dangers associated with drunk driving. Operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or other intoxicating drugs can lead to a serious collision accompanied by harmful bodily injuries. 

In Illinois, a person can be arrested – and later convicted – of driving under the influence (DUI) if he or she is found to have a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08 percent or more, while he or she is in “actual physical control” of a motor vehicle. 

DUIs often result in criminal charges being imposed against the offending driver. In addition, if the DUI results in a motor vehicle collision in which one or more individuals sustain injuries, the drunk driver could be civilly liable for the injuries and damages from which the accident victim(s) suffers.

Speak to a Chicago Car Accident Lawyer Today

If you have been injured in an accident that took place on a road trip, the lawyers at Malman Law are ready to assist you. To schedule a free case evaluation and legal consultation with a Chicago car accident attorney, please call us at (312) 629-0099 or contact us online to learn more.