After a Santa Clarita car accident due to speeding, you might wonder, “Can speed be determined after an accident?” The answer is yes. With the help of sufficient evidence, accident reconstruction analysis, and other proof, experts can identify the speed of the vehicles involved when determining the cause of a crash.
Since speed is crucial in determining liability, it is critical to understand how speed is identified after a car accident and what to do to receive compensation in a high-speed crash.
Why Is Overspeeding Dangerous?
Did you know that about one-third of all motor vehicle fatalities have been linked to speeding for more than 20 years? Additionally, 29% of traffic fatalities in 2022 were caused by speeding.
Looking deeper, according to the California Office of Traffic Safety, 75 injured and fatal victims were involved in auto crashes caused by speeding in Santa Clarita in 2021. Given the significant number of speeding car accidents, it is important to understand why overspeeding endangers road safety.
- Reduced Reaction Time: At faster speeds, the amount of time available to respond to unforeseen obstructions or changes in the road’s conditions is significantly less. Due to this restricted reaction time, drivers may be unable to brake or maneuver appropriately, which could result in crashes.
- Increased Stopping Distance: A car takes longer to stop the faster it is moving. This is because there is more kinetic energy to release. For instance, a vehicle traveling at 100 mph needs more space to stop completely than one at 20 mph.
- Greater Impact Force: Collisions occur more severely at higher speeds. With increasing speed, the force of impact grows exponentially, resulting in more severe injuries and fatalities. Even though the two vehicles are the same size and weight, a collision at 70 mph requires far more force than one at 40 mph.
- Reduced Control: It is more difficult to control the car when speeding. It gets harder to make sharp bends, stop suddenly, or swerve to avoid obstructions, which increases the chance of losing control and colliding.
- Increased Likelihood of Skidding: Vehicles are more likely to skid when traveling faster, particularly on slick or rainy roads. Steering and braking efficiently are more challenging because the tires have less traction on the pavement.
Overspeeding jeopardizes safety by shortening reaction times, lengthening stopping distances, and intensifying collision forces. Drivers must obey speed limits and modify their speed in accordance with the road conditions to protect their and others’ safety.
What Does the Law Say About Speeding in Santa Clarita?
According to California Vehicle Code 22350, known as the Basic Speed Law, driving a vehicle on a highway at speeds that are not reasonable or prudent, given the conditions, is prohibited. This includes considering factors such as visibility, traffic, road surface, and road width. It also emphasizes that driving at any speed that endangers people or property is prohibited.
This means overspeeding, which increases the risk of accidents, is not allowed under this law. However, driving too slow is also considered illegal, depending on the specific circumstances.
Note that what is considered “reasonable and prudent” can vary depending on the situation. For instance, driving more slowly in bad weather or areas with many pedestrians might be appropriate. Conversely, driving well below the speed limit on a wide, open road without a valid reason could lead to a citation for obstructing traffic.
Hence, you must always adhere to the speed limit and adjust depending on the conditions, such as wet roads.
Lawyer’s Tip: While overspeeding is generally illegal, going too slow is also prohibited in California. According to the law, traveling at a slow speed in such a way that it will impede or block the normal and reasonable flow of traffic is not allowed.
What to Do After a Santa Clarita Car Accident
A high-speed crash can be extremely traumatic and overwhelming. Taking the appropriate procedures promptly following an accident will ensure your safety and legal rights. Here are tips on what to do following a high-speed crash in Santa Clarita:
- Check for Injuries: Assess yourself and others for injuries. Call 911 or the Santa Clarita Police Department immediately, even if you only sustain minor injuries.
- Move to Safety: If possible and safe, move your vehicle out of traffic to prevent further accidents.
- Document the Scene: Document the scene and gather evidence to help prove your claim. You may capture detailed photos of the vehicles, visible injuries, road conditions, and the surrounding area. Collecting the contact details of witnesses is also essential.
- Gather Information: Exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver. Note the make, model, and license plate of all involved vehicles.
- Consult a Santa Clarita Accident Lawyer: Consider hiring a Santa Clarita car accident attorney, especially if there are serious injuries or disagreements about liability. A lawyer can help you preserve your rights and get appropriate compensation.
Following these measures will help you handle the aftermath of a speeding car accident more successfully, guaranteeing your safety and assisting in obtaining any compensation you may be entitled to.
Can I File a Claim for a Santa Clarita Car Accident Due to Speeding?
Typically, the driver responsible for causing the collision is liable for the damages. In an accident, they can be liable if their actions, such as committing traffic violations, cause a collision. In such a case, their insurance company should cover expenses such as medical bills, vehicle repairs, and lost wages.
However, note that you must demonstrate that the accident was due to the driver’s negligence by proving the following:
- The driver had a duty to ensure the safety of others on the road.
- The driver breached this duty.
- This breach caused the accident.
- The accident resulted in injuries and other damages.
For example, if a speeding driver hits you, their speeding violation caused the accident. Therefore, you can hold them accountable for the damages you suffer from the crash.
When pursuing a claim for compensation, you must have evidence to show that the accident was due to another driver’s negligence. In the case of a high-speed crash, you could provide proof such as:
- Photos of the accident scene
- CCTV or surveillance footage
- Witness testimonies
- Police reports
Is Vehicle Speed Measurable After a Santa Clarita Car Accident?
In a Santa Clarita car accident, it is possible to measure the speed of the involved vehicles when determining its cause. Legal experts and investigators employ various techniques to identify the speed of the vehicles at the scene. The following evidence helps prove the speed of a car after a high-speed crash:
Car Accident Reconstruction Analysis
Car collisions can be difficult to prove, mainly when there is limited evidence. Auto accident reconstruction can clarify how the crash occurred and identify its cause. It can generally help determine:
- the speed of the vehicles involved
- the reaction time of the drivers before the collision
- stopping distances
- driver actions
- mechanical failures
Reconstruction experts analyze the collected data using statistical methods and sophisticated tools. They might also produce computer-generated models or simulations to replicate the accident and test various scenarios.
Witness Testimonies
Witness testimony is one of the most critical forms of evidence in a car accident case. Witness statements can provide essential details such as:
- how the accident occurred
- events leading up to the crash
- actions taken after the accident
- specific details of the collision, including vehicle types and license plate numbers
- descriptions of the drivers involved (especially if the at-fault party leaves the scene)
Gathering statements from witnesses can be crucial if you’re involved in a speeding car accident. However, there are instances where the negligent party’s insurance company may try to undermine the witness testimony, claiming it could be biased because you obtained it.
Obtaining the witnesses’ contact information and having your accident attorney formally collect their statements to mitigate this issue is essential.
Photos of the Accident Scene
Accident scene photos are vital evidence for a car accident claim. They can:
- Illustrate the accident’s sequence.
- Establish the likely cause of the crash.
- Depict the extent of the damages incurred.
- Document essential accident specifics like location, weather, and road conditions.
If you’re in a car accident, take photos of the scene. Remember that when capturing the scene, always include the following:
- Skid Marks: To determine a vehicle’s speed, investigators examine the length of skid marks left on the road. Longer skid marks typically indicate higher speeds.
- Vehicle Damage: Experts can estimate the speed at impact based on the kind and level of damage to the vehicles involved. Specific speed ranges correspond with particular damage patterns.
- Injuries Sustained: Your injuries can also be evidence justifying that the driver was speeding during the crash. Usually, victims incur severe bodily harm in a speeding car accident. Additionally, they may be ejected if the impact is too severe.
Surveillance Footage
Surveillance footage is recordings from dash cams, neighboring businesses, or traffic light cameras that show the accident as it happens. These recordings are helpful in piecing together the events and figuring out many things, such as how fast the cars moved before they collided.
Proficiency in surveillance film analysis is necessary for appropriate data interpretation. It can support or refute witness accounts and assist investigators in determining the exact order in which the accident occurred. This evidence provides a distinct visual record that helps prove liability and explain the dynamics of the incident. It is especially important in situations where witness testimonies differ or are lacking.
Event Data Recorders and GPS Data
EDRs, which record information including speed, brake application, and seatbelt usage just before and after a crash, are frequently found in modern cars. The vehicle’s speed can be precisely determined using this data.
In some instances, information from a GPS installed in the car can also be utilized to estimate the speed before an accident.
While these can prove liability, it can be stressful to gather each piece of evidence when determining the speed of a vehicle. Fortunately, you can hire a Santa Clarita accident lawyer who can work with investigators to understand the vehicles’ speeds using these techniques when determining who is at fault and how the collision happened.
How Can a Santa Clarita Accident Lawyer Help Me?
Filing a car accident claim can be challenging, especially when severe injuries prevent you from gathering crucial evidence at the accident scene. How can you defend your case in such situations?
A Santa Clarita accident lawyer can handle your claim by collecting evidence and proving liability while you focus on your recovery. They will help you by:
- Gathering evidence
- Proving liability
- Meeting legal deadlines
- Calculating total damages
- Defending your case
- Proceeding to trial if necessary
If you need top-notch legal assistance in California, Jacoby & Meyers offers some of the most skilled and dedicated personal injury attorneys to ensure you receive the justice you deserve. Known for their unwavering commitment to protecting clients’ rights, Jacoby & Meyers stands out among firms assisting with accident compensation.
Since 1972, Jacoby & Meyers has steadfastly advocated for accident victims, securing significant settlements. With over $2 billion in settlements, our impressive track record highlights our dedication to clients.
If you’ve been injured in a Santa Clarita car accident, Jacoby & Meyers is ready to help. We offer free consultations for injury victims and work on a contingency fee basis.
Jacoby and Meyers. Because You Deserve Justice.
Hear From Our Past Clients
Instead of relying just on our guarantees, consider what satisfied clients say about our services.
“My experience with Jacoby & Meyers was amazing; they got me everything I deserved. They updated me with calls, texts, and emails. I don’t know how I would’ve made it through my accident process without their help. Thank you so much, Jacoby & Meyers!” – Elisa S.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you have further questions regarding personal injury claims? We got you! Here are some frequently asked questions from injured victims that may help explain some aspects of your case.
- Is Eating While Driving Considered Negligence in California?
- What Happens If an Unlicensed Driver Hits Me?
- How Does the Burden of Proof Work in Personal Injury Claims in California?
- How Do I Include Lost Wages in My Personal Injury Claim?
Works Cited
“California Vehicle Code 22350.” California Legislative Information
“OTS Crash Ranking Results.” California Office of Traffic Safety.
“Speeding and Aggressive Driving Prevention.” NHTSA.
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