Common Causes of Car Accidents in West Virginia

Helping victims injured by drunk or distracted drivers

West Virginia’s roads can be dangerous places. The state has nearly double the national rate of deadly accidents involving alcohol. Drivers also use their phones and other electronic devices while operating their vehicles. Speeding and reckless driving are major causes of accidents in the state and many others are injured by defective vehicles. If you or a family member suffered an injury in a car accident, the injury attorneys at Prim Law Firm, PLLC can help you get justice. Our team of attorneys works hard to get justice for people who have suffered an injury due to another person’s negligence.

Getting justice for victims of drunk driving accidents

Alcohol impairs a driver’s ability to make good decisions. It slows down response time and blurs vision. You should never operate a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Unfortunately, West Virginia averages about 120 deaths per year in drunk driving accidents, and 32 percent of accident fatalities in the state are caused by drivers with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) over 0.08 percent. Over a recent five-year period, our state had an annual average of 6.18 alcohol-related driving fatalities per 100,000 people. The national average was much lower, at 3.9. In addition to those who were killed, many people suffered serious injuries in accidents involving intoxication.

Taking on manufacturers of defective car parts

As we have seen time and time again on the news, car companies and parts manufacturers go to extreme lengths to cut costs, leading to defective parts and vehicles. Because of the complexity of modern vehicles and the speed at which they move, poor design of even the smallest part can cause a catastrophic accident. Car parts that can cause injuries if defective include:

• Airbag systems
• Accelerator pedals
• Ignition systems
• Brakes
• Steering systems

If you have been hurt due to a recalled or dangerously designed part, the injury lawyers at our firm will do whatever it takes to hold the manufacturer accountable.

Holding drivers responsible for the damage caused by distracted driving

There have always been distractions that can take a driver’s eyes off the wheel. Food, makeup and the radio all take attention off the road. Operating a radio or even having a conversation with a passenger can distract a driver for long enough that they miss a car changing lanes in front of them or don’t notice a pedestrian crossing the road.

While these issues have existed for generations, electronic devices raised the bar for the level of distraction possible. Speaking on a phone while operating a vehicle reduces a driver’s ability to focus on the road. West Virginia requires drivers to use a hands-free device. Looking down to read or send a text message or e-mail is even worse and is illegal in the state. Today, smartphones are full of even more engrossing distractions like Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. Apps like Waze encourage drivers to treat their commute like a game, while Snapchat allows users to superimpose their current speed on their pictures. These distractions have the potential to lead to a catastrophic accident. Our auto accident lawyers do whatever it takes to hold negligent drivers liable and get justice for those injured due to distracted driving.

Representing people injured in accidents involving speeding

Speeding-related fatalities increased 45% in West Virginia between 2006 and 2010. Many deaths are also caused by reckless driving and racing. Traffic rules exist to protect all of us, and those who ignore them should be accountable for the consequences of their actions. Our attorneys seek to hold reckless drivers liable for your injuries.

Call a law firm with experience representing auto accident victims

Regardless of what another driver did wrong, your main focus should be on healing and getting your life back together. At Prim Law Firm, PLLC, we concentrate on getting you justice so you can concentrate on your health and your family. Call us today at 304-721-4619 or contact us online to set up a free consultation with an experienced West Virginia attorney.