By definition, negligent means; the failure to exercise the care of which a reasonably prudent individual would exercise in similar circumstances. In law terms, this is an area of tort that involves harm caused by the carelessness of an individual rather than an individual intending to harm.
Over the past 20 years non-alcohol related fatalities have increased dramatically in the United States. In 2010, there were over 5,400,000 automobile accidents resulting in 2,239,000 injuries and 32,885 deaths, many of which directly correlated with negligent driving. This negligence is due to drivers becoming increasingly distracted, careless and impatient while at the wheel.
Another reason for the dramatic increase in negligent drivers, and the number one cause of automobile accidents today, is texting while driving. However, in car gadgets, sleep deprived individuals, and other factors also contribute to the increased numbers of negligent drivers.
If you or someone you love has been injured in a negligent driving accident at the fault of another individual, you may be entitled to compensation for your losses including; medical expenses, property damage, lost wages, and pain and suffering. The auto accident attorneys in our Knoxville office believe that all negligent individuals must be held accountable for their actions.
For more information, fill out the Free Case Review form on this page Its 100% FREE.
Avoidable Dangers
Realistically, all cases of negligent driving can be prevented from ever occurring. If we simply abide by the traffic laws that were put in place to keep us safe, we can all be put out of harms way. However, these traffic laws continue to be broken every day by negligent individuals. These individuals actions are classified as negligent due to the fact that they were preventable, yet no action had been taken to minimize that chance for injury.
Common types of negligent driving include:
- Aggressive driving
- Defective auto parts
- Driving while drowsy (40k injuries per year and 1,550 deaths)
- Driving under the influence of alcohol (cause seven percent of accidents per year)
- Eating and drinking while driving
- Applying makeup or shaving while driving
- Talking and texting while driving (decreases reaction time by 30 percent)
- Unsafe driving
There are many ways a driver can be classified as negligent, while all cases can be preventable. At Greg Coleman Law we are prepared to fight for you to help you receive the compensation you deserve as a result of a negligent driver accident.
To learn more, complete the Free Case Review on this page Its FREE.
Negligent Driving Violations and Points
At the point at which an individual make the decision to put others at harm while driving, that individual has made the decision to drive negligently and could be subject to harsh penalties, especially if another individual is injured or killed. When a person is convicted of negligent driving, it can result in criminal or civil penalties, which include jail time and fines.
In Tennessee, there is a point system used to assist in monitoring and correcting drivers, identifying driver types, and promote road safety. Every driver starts with zero points and accumulates them according to the severity of traffic violations of which they are convicted. After receiving a certain number of points, individuals may have their license suspended or revoked, along with increased insurance rates.
Examples of the Tennessee Point System Is As Follows:
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One point
Exceeding the speed limit between one and five miles per hour
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Two Points
Speeding over five miles per hour of the posted limit in a construction zone
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Three Points
- Speeding between six to 15 miles per hour over the limit
- Tailgating
- Causing an accident that results in damaged property
- Improper vehicle control or failing to control vehicle
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Four Points
- Driving under the required minimum speed limit
- Improper turning
- Causing an accident resulting in bodily injury
- Not reporting an accident
- Failing to abide by traffic instructions
- Improper passing of vehicle
- Driving in the incorrect direction
- Not yielding to the right of way
- Speeding between 16 to 25 miles per hour over the limit
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Five Points
- Leaving the scene of an accident which resulted in damaged property
- Speeding between 26 to 35 miles per hour over the limit
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Six Points
- Driving in violation to drivers license or certificate restrictions
- Reckless driving
- Speeding between 35 to 45 miles per hour over the limit
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Eight Points
- Running from an officer
- Aiding in an accident causing death
- Operating a vehicle with a cancelled license
- Speeding over 46 miles per hour
Once a person receives 12 or more points in a 12 month time period, that individual will receive a proposed suspension notice. The Department of Safety will send a warning letter when you have accumulated between six and 11 points. A person will be granted an administrative hearing before their license is suspended or revoked to contest the suspension or revocation along with assessing their future driving privileges.
For additional information, complete the Free Case Review on this page Its FREE
Contact An Experienced Tennessee Lawyer
As responsible members of our local community in Tennessee, Greg Coleman Law strongly believes that negligent individuals must be held accountable for their actions.
With our primary office located in Knox County, TN our personal injury attorneys are here to help car accident victims, and are licensed to practice law throughout the state of Tennessee. We have won over $250 Million successful verdicts and settlements for our clients, and can provide the knowledge and experience that is necessary to handle your auto injury litigation.
For more information, please contact us at (865) 247-0080 where a member of our intake team will quickly gather the details of your accident and connect you with one of our experienced auto accident lawyers.
Begin here by completing the Free Case Review form on this page Its 100% FREE.
