Palatine, Illinois Car Accident Lawyers

Newland & Newland was a great asset to utilize after my car accident. Attorney Gary Newland provided excellent support and care to my case! Took away the stress while I was trying to heal. Everyone at Newland & Newland is very kind and helpful and knowledgeable. I would definitely use them again. Thank you.

A motor vehicle collision can take place in an instant, but its consequences may last for years. Whether on busy highways in the Northwest Suburbs or quiet neighborhood streets in Palatine, a collision caused by a negligent driver can result in serious injuries, emotional trauma, and significant financial hardship.

When you have been injured in a car accident, the road to recovery can seem overwhelming. Medical bills can pile up, and time away from work while recovering from an injury can lead to additional financial difficulties. The stress you may experience can make the physical pain and emotional trauma you have suffered even worse. You need a legal advocate to help you determine the best path forward. At Newland & Newland, LLP, our Palatine car accident lawyers can help advocate for your rights and take steps to hold a negligent driver accountable.

Dangerous Traffic Violations That Can Lead to Car Crashes

Many car accidents are caused by drivers who disregard the traffic laws that are designed to protect everyone on the road. Common violations that can result in collisions include:

• Speeding: When driving over the speed limit, the time available to react to obstacles or hazards may be reduced significantly. Even if a driver did not violate the speed limit, they may cause an accident if they drive too fast in conditions such as heavy rain or snowy weather.
• Failure to Yield: Drivers may ignore yield signs, run red lights, or ignore the right-of-way of other vehicles at intersections. These violations can lead to T-bone or side-impact crashes.
• Improper Lane Changes: A driver who weaves between lanes without signaling, fails to check their blind spots, or passes other vehicles illegally may cause a sideswipe accident or another type of collision.
• Following Too Closely: Tailgating reduces the margin for error. If the vehicle ahead stops suddenly, a rear-end collision may be unavoidable.
• Disregarding Traffic Control Devices: Ignoring stop signs, traffic signals, and pedestrian crossings can increase the risk of severe crashes.

Violations like these are not merely technical errors. They often reflect a disregard for the safety of others on the road. Drivers who cause harm to others due to their failure to follow traffic laws may be held responsible for their negligence.

Drunk Driving and its Devastating Consequences

Driving under the influence of alcohol is one of the most reckless actions a person can take. In Illinois, a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher is considered over the legal limit for non-commercial drivers. However, even small amounts of alcohol can impair a driver's coordination, reaction time, and decision-making ability. The use of marijuana, controlled substances, or some types of medications can also lead to impairments that affect a person's ability to drive safely.

Drunk drivers may drift between lanes or into oncoming traffic. They may fail to brake in time to avoid a rear-end collision. They may ignore traffic signals or drive the wrong way on one-way roads. These behaviors can result in devastating collisions. A driver who causes a crash while intoxicated may face both criminal penalties and civil liability for the harm they cause.

The Hidden Danger of Driver Fatigue

Although it may not receive the same level of attention as drunk driving, fatigue can be just as dangerous. Sleep-deprived drivers can experience slowed reflexes and a decreased ability to see and respond to what is happening on the road around them. Fatigue can lead to microsleep episodes, which are brief lapses in consciousness that can result in a complete loss of control of a vehicle.

Fatigued driving can be an issue for shift workers with irregular schedules, long-distance commuters, and parents of young children or other caregivers who do not receive enough sleep. The risk of falling asleep at the wheel can increase significantly after extended periods without rest. Like intoxication, fatigue limits a driver's ability to respond to sudden changes and maintain control of their vehicle, which can make collisions more likely to occur.

Distracted Driving: A Leading Cause of Preventable Accidents

Distractions while driving have become alarmingly common due to the widespread use of smartphones. However, distractions are not limited to texting, talking on the phone, or browsing the internet. Other common distractions include looking up directions on navigation systems, eating or drinking, adjusting vehicle settings, or interacting with passengers.

Even a momentary distraction can cause a driver to miss a red light, fail to stop for a pedestrian, or rear-end another vehicle. Illinois law prohibits texting while driving, and drivers can be fined or face other penalties for using electronic devices while operating a vehicle. Whether distracted driving involves texting or other activities, it is a serious concern that can lead to dangerous car accidents.

Frequently Asked Questions About Motor Vehicle Accidents

Contact Our Palatine Car Accident Attorneys

After suffering injuries in a car accident, legal support from a skilled attorney can help ensure that your rights are protected and that those who were responsible for your injuries can be held accountable. At Newland & Newland, LLP, we can help you follow the right steps to obtain the full compensation you deserve. Contact our Palatine, IL motor vehicle accident lawyers a 847-797-8000 to set up a fee consultation.