Navigating the aftermath of a car accident can be daunting, especially when traffic violations are involved. Whether you’re dealing with an injury or damage to your vehicle, understanding how traffic violations affect your car accident claim is crucial. A Santa Ana car accident lawyer can be instrumental in guiding you through these complexities.
How Traffic Violations Affect Your Car Accident Case
Traffic violations can significantly influence the outcome of a car accident claim. These violations can be categorized into two main types: those committed by the other driver and those committed by you. Here’s how they can impact your case:
- Violations by the Other Driver
- Liability Determination: If the other driver was violating traffic laws at the time of the accident—such as running a red light or speeding—this can be strong evidence of their fault. Traffic tickets and police reports that document these violations can support your claim and strengthen your case for compensation.
- Insurance Claims: Insurers often use traffic violation records to determine fault. If the other driver is cited for a violation, their insurance company may be more inclined to settle quickly. However, it’s essential to have a knowledgeable Santa Ana car accident lawyer to ensure that these violations are properly documented and used to your advantage.
- Legal Penalties: The other driver’s traffic violations can lead to legal penalties, which can influence their liability in your case. A conviction for a serious violation can be a critical piece of evidence in court.
- Violations by You
- Shared Fault: If you were also committing a traffic violation at the time of the accident, such as speeding or running a stop sign, it may impact your claim. California follows a comparative fault rule, meaning that your compensation could be reduced based on the percentage of fault assigned to you. For example, if you’re found to be 30% at fault, your compensation might be reduced by that percentage.
- Insurance Impact: Your own insurance company may use any traffic violations as a reason to contest or reduce the amount of compensation you receive. It’s crucial to understand how these factors play into your case and how to address them effectively.
How a Santa Ana Car Accident Lawyer Can Help
A skilled car accident lawyer in Santa Ana can provide invaluable assistance in managing the complexities introduced by traffic violations. Here’s how:
- Evidence Collection and Analysis
- A lawyer will gather and analyze all relevant evidence, including police reports, traffic tickets, and witness statements. They will use this information to build a strong case, demonstrating how traffic violations contributed to the accident.
- Negotiation with Insurance Companies
- Insurance companies often seek to minimize payouts, especially if there are traffic violations involved. A Santa Ana car accident lawyer can negotiate on your behalf to ensure you receive fair compensation. They understand the tactics used by insurers and can counteract them effectively.
- Representation in Court
- If your case goes to court, having a lawyer who is well-versed in traffic law and accident cases is crucial. They can present your case, argue on your behalf, and ensure that the traffic violations are considered in the context of your claim.
- Navigating Comparative Fault
- If you are partially at fault, a lawyer can help mitigate the impact of your traffic violations on your compensation. They can argue to minimize the percentage of fault assigned to you, which can help you recover more of the damages you’re entitled to.
Contact Our Santa Ana Car Accident Lawyer
In summary, traffic violations can significantly impact the outcome of your car accident claim, whether they are committed by you or the other driver. Working with a Santa Ana car accident lawyer can help navigate these complexities, ensuring that your rights are protected and that you receive fair compensation. If you’ve been involved in a car accident and are dealing with issues related to traffic violations, reach out to The Krolikowski Law Firm. Our experienced attorneys are dedicated to helping injured victims in Santa Ana navigate their legal challenges. For more information or to schedule a consultation, visit our website at The Krolikowski Law Firm.