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Rhode Island Car Accident Lawyer

Call (888) 471-3714 to speak with a car accident attorney.

With millions cars and trucks on the road in the United States, many of the nation's highways are congested with people traveling short distances, as well as on long road trips. Most people travel in a car or truck each day, to work, to the store, on errands, or elsewhere. People think nothing of getting in a car and going; it is a routine they are used to, that they are familiar and comfortable with.

The reality with automobiles, however comfortable we are with them, is that they can be very dangerous. Cars and trucks are heavy machines capable of traveling high speeds. Unforeseen incidents, such as an animal running into the road, quick breaking of a car ahead, or a patch of ice can quickly change a person's travels. In an instant, a crash can occur.

Approximately 100 Americans are involved in fatal car accidents each day and approximately 40,000 are involved in fatal car accidents each year. Automobile accidents are the leading cause of death for individuals under the age of 34. There are a number of factors that can lead to car accidents, including driver inattention and distraction, driver fatigue, weather, aggressive driving, speeding, and drunk driving.

The leading cause of car accidents is driver inattention; this accounts for approximately 80 percent of accidents. Activities attributed to driver inattention include the use of cell phones while driving (including talking or texting), applying makeup, reading maps or books, eating, or reaching for a moving object. Taking attention away from driving can quickly lead to an accident even if a driver only looks away from the road for a brief moment. This sort of inattention can lead to single- or multi-vehicle accidents.

Alcohol related accidents account for approximately 18 percent of fatal accidents during the day, and approximately 54 percent of accidents that occur at night. Weather, including rain, fog, snow, and ice, can also play a large factor in motor vehicle accidents, particularly during the winter months.

Speed is also a significant factor in motor vehicle accidents. Going faster than the posted speed limit, particularly when the weather is poor, or ignoring traffic conditions, can be a major contribution to motor vehicle accidents.

All that is necessary to cause a motor vehicle accident is a moment and a quick change in conditions. A distracted driver, someone ignoring the posted speed limit, or a road hazard can result in a car accident. If you or a loved one has been involved in a car accident that resulted in injury, if a loved one was killed, or if your vehicle was seriously damaged, it is recommended that you speak with an attorney in Rhode Island who specializes in motor vehicle accidents.

It is advised that you speak to an attorney whose focus is motor vehicle accidents if:

It is not clear who is at fault for an accident
You are unsure how to evaluate your claim
Your insurance adjuster has requested you produce medical records that are from a period before your accident
An insurance adjuster has made an offer, but you believe it should be more
You do not think you can negotiate a settlement independently
You are seriously injured
You have significant medical bills as the result of your accident
Liability is being disputed and you feel you are not responsible for the accident
You have been served with a lawsuit by the other party in the accident

A Rhode Island lawyer will help you negotiate the legal aspects of your auto accident. Be advised that there are statutes of limitations for making claims, particularly if you are looking to pursue a negligence claim. Your lawyer will advise you of these limitations and help you proceed.

If you have been involved in an accident, speak with an attorney who can guide you through the process.