Recent West Virginia Law Changes Focused On Motorist Safety
Whenever an accident occurs, it is important for officials to understand the reasons that led to the crash. If roadways or intersections are poorly designed, the information learned from the investigation can lead to improvements that make the roadways safer. If the vehicles had defects that resulted in the crash, the manufacturers may be forced to recall other models with similar problems.
However, many auto accidents are caused due to the behavior of the drivers involved. They may have taken their eyes off of the road for a few moments, and this meant that they were unaware that they were about to get into a crash. Some may be impaired and unable to make the quick maneuvers necessary to avoid an accident.
According to numbers compiled by The West Virginia Division of Motor Vehicles, there have been 125 citations for distracted driving offenses in the first ten months that the state has had these laws in effect. The upcoming change may result in more drivers being ticketed for distracted driving, which could help make roadways safer.
The second change that may impact motorist safety concerns the amount of time that law enforcement officers have when investigating drivers impaired by drugs. Under old rules, police only had two hours to obtain a warrant to check for the presence of drugs. The new rule would double that time, allowing the officer four hours to complete the process.
This increase would give the officer the time that he or she needs to complete a drugged driving stop, and also ensure that those motorists under the influence are not able to threaten the safety of other drivers.
If you have been injured in a car or truck accident caused by the negligent actions of another driver, speak to an experienced personal injury attorney about your case. An attorney can help you review the accident to determine the parties responsible for causing your injuries, which can allow you to recover the compensation you need to pay for the treatment that you are receiving.
It is important that you gather as much as evidence as possible from your accident. All of this information may be necessary to establish the causes of the collision. Insurance companies may try to pressure you into a quick release of your claims, but you need to be sure that the full extent of your injuries is known. If complications arise during treatment, you could be responsible for these expenses out of your own pocket if you settle too soon.
