Running a red light, texting at the wheel, or cutting across lanes without signaling may seem like minor traffic infractions, but these are leading causes of car accidents in Los Angeles. When these violations result in injury or property damage, they can quickly escalate into legal battles involving insurance claims and lawsuits.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a crash caused by a traffic violation, LA Injury Lawyers can help. Our attorneys have secured millions of dollars for clients involved in all types of traffic and accidents. Schedule your free legal consultation today.
The Connection Between Traffic Violations and Car Accidents
Most car crashes are not accidents in the truest sense of the word. They are often the result of negligent behavior and violations of California traffic laws. From speeding and distracted driving to failure to yield, traffic violations create dangerous situations that can lead to serious collisions. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), human error is a contributing factor in over 90 percent of motor vehicle crashes.
In a city like Los Angeles, where traffic congestion and high-speed travel are the norm, the margin for error is slim. When a violation of the law compounds that error, the results can be catastrophic.
Common Traffic Violations That Lead to Car Accidents
Speeding
Speeding remains one of the leading causes of traffic collisions. Drivers who exceed posted limits reduce their ability to react to sudden hazards and increase the severity of injuries when accidents occur. Speeding-related crashes are often more deadly and result in higher compensation claims.
Running Red Lights or Stop Signs
Intersections are among the most common locations for serious crashes. Failing to obey traffic control devices leads to T-bone accidents, sideswipes, and pedestrian injuries. Running a red light is not just a citation issue. It is a primary cause of liability in many traffic accident lawsuits.
Distracted Driving
Distractions such as texting, eating, or adjusting GPS devices can be just as dangerous as impaired driving. These violations are harder to prove without video footage or witness testimony, but are increasingly being cited as contributing causes in accident investigations.
Tailgating
Following too closely can cause rear-end collisions, which often result in neck and spinal injuries. In most cases, the rear driver is presumed at fault, especially if a citation was issued for tailgating.
Illegal Lane Changes and Merging
Unsafe lane changes, particularly on freeways and in heavy traffic, often result in high-speed collisions. Drivers who change lanes without signaling or checking blind spots are frequently at fault when crashes occur.
Each of these violations increases a driver’s exposure to liability. If they result in a crash, the legal and financial consequences can be severe. Call our Los Angeles car accident attorneys today for help!
Legal Implications of Traffic Violations
When a driver violates the California Vehicle Code and causes a crash, they may be found negligent per se. This legal concept means that the violation itself serves as evidence of negligence. That significantly strengthens the case for the injured party.
In addition to liability, traffic citations can influence the outcome of settlement negotiations or court rulings. Insurance companies take citations seriously when determining how to value claims or contest fault.
If you received a citation in a crash or the other driver did, it is critical to work with a lawyer who can interpret the implications and defend or assert your rights accordingly.
Can a Traffic Violation Lead to a Lawsuit?
Yes. Many traffic accident lawsuits begin with a simple violation that spirals into a serious personal injury case. Whether the incident involves running a stop sign, failing to yield, or speeding, a civil claim can be filed by anyone who the at-fault driver’s negligence has harmed.
California operates under a comparative fault rule, meaning more than one driver can share liability. If you were partially at fault but the other driver committed a more serious violation, you may still recover damages, with your compensation reduced by your percentage of fault.
A personal injury attorney can evaluate the circumstances of the crash and advise whether a traffic violation supports your claim.
How an Attorney Proves Fault in a Traffic Violation Case
Proving fault requires collecting and preserving evidence. In cases involving traffic violations, your attorney may gather:
- Police reports and traffic citations
- Eyewitness statements
- Traffic camera or dash cam footage
- Expert analysis of accident reconstruction
Lawyers also evaluate the scene of the accident, review any violation notices, and determine whether the violation was a direct cause of the crash.
When a lawyer builds a case with this level of detail, it significantly increases the chance of securing favorable compensation.
What Compensation Is Available After a Crash Caused by a Violation?
Victims of accidents caused by traffic violations can seek several forms of compensation, including:
- Medical expenses, current and future
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
- Property damage repair or replacement
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
The more severe the injuries and the clearer the violation, the greater the potential compensation. Legal representation ensures you pursue the full amount to which you are entitled.
Talk to an Experienced Attorney About Your Traffic Accident Case
At LA Injury Lawyers, we understand how one poor decision behind the wheel can lead to long-term consequences for innocent victims. Whether you were hit by a distracted driver or injured in a speeding-related crash, we will help you pursue justice and full financial recovery.
Our Recent Results:
- $11 Million for a brain injury victim
- $10 Million for a car accident victim
- $8.2 Million for a motorcycle accident case
- $7 Million for a client with a back injury
Let us handle the legal process so you can focus on healing. Call us at (818) 539-5390 or email in**@*************rs.com to schedule your free consultation today.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common traffic violations that cause accidents?
Speeding, tailgating, distracted driving, running red lights, and unsafe lane changes are the leading violations behind crash-related injuries.
Can I file a lawsuit if the other driver was ticketed?
Yes. A traffic citation can be robust evidence in a personal injury lawsuit and strengthen your claim for damages.
Do I need a lawyer for a minor traffic accident?
Even in minor accidents, legal counsel can help prevent insurance denials and protect your rights.
What if both drivers violated traffic laws?
California’s comparative fault rules allow you to recover partial compensation, even if you share some responsibility for the accident.
How long do I have to file a traffic accident lawsuit in California?
Generally, you have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. However, exceptions may apply.
