When you think of dangerous drivers on major California roads, you typically think about individuals traveling well over the speed limit. Speeding drivers are more likely to cause a high-force collision with extensive damages, sometimes taking lives of victims. But what does the law say about slow driving and its dangers? Just like drivers who speed, slow drivers could also be causing dangerous conditions on major highways and roads.
At Maison Law, we offer our support and resources to those who have been hurt in accidents due to slow drivers. It can sometimes be difficult to prove that a slow driver is to blame for your accident, raising many questions as you navigate the legal system. Contact us today to get started on your case.
The Hazards of Slow Driving in California
On many California roads, especially highways where high speeds are commonplace, slow driving can pose many dangers to other drivers. When a motorist is moving well below the posted speed limit, they could be blocking traffic or creating hazards to those around them.
Law enforcement typically allows drivers to drive more slowly in the far-right lane and will only cite a slow driver when they are driving slowly in the fast lane. However, a slow driver could still be cited if all traffic around them is approaching them at a dangerous rate because they are driving so far below the speed limit. Drivers are expected to utilize care and common sense, which means abiding by the speed limit in all driving areas.
Types of Slow Drivers Seen on California Roads
There are many reasons why drivers travel at slow speeds on our roadways. However, some factors are sometimes at play that make slow driving more common. These include some of the following:
Distracted Drivers: Distracted driving causes approximately one-third of all fatalities that happen on our roads in the U.S. If a driver is too focused on their phone or eating, they could drive more slowly than usual. This could interrupt the flow of traffic and lead to a severe or deadly accident in the blink of an eye.
New Drivers: When a driver is first learning how to navigate our roads, they are likely to become intimidated by the speed limit. A driver who is newly merging onto a highway might drive more slowly than the vehicles around them, increasing the chance of a serious rear-end accident.
Senior Citizen Drivers: Aging drivers are more likely to have poor vision, sore joints, and poor hearing. Their reaction time could also become impeded, which can increase the chances of a crash happening.
Rubbernecking Drivers: When a tourist is traveling in a new area or a driver sees an accident on a highway, they might slow down to take a closer look without even realizing it. This could lead to dangers for others who share the roads and are unable to stop in time.
Sharing the Roads Safely with Slow Drivers
Unfortunately, not all slow drivers will merge to let you pass when you are obeying the speed limit. If you plan on overtaking a slow driver because you feel that their driving is posing a hazard on the road, you should follow these steps:
- Know if you are able to accelerate quickly enough to merge safely with the rest of traffic. If you know that your vehicle will be unable to do so, maintain a safe distance from the slow driver until you are able to get around them.
- Check to see if there is a reason why the driver is driving slowly. Perhaps they are having a medical emergency or they are driving distracted, which can put others at risk.
- Look for other vehicles with plenty of time before you decide to merge so that you are not putting other drivers at risk.
- Remember the laws of the road and drive within the speed limit. You don’t want to cause dangers yourself because of speeding.
Damages in a Slow Driving Accident
If you can show that the slow driver is to blame for your accident due to their negligent driving, you can bring a successful personal injury claim against them or their insurance. You may be able to gain financial recovery for some of the following damages:
- Loss of income from missing time at work
- Medical expenses, from hospital visits to rehabilitation costs
- Prescription medicine costs
- Pain and suffering
- Funeral costs if a loved one has lost their life in an accident
Depending on the circumstances of your claim and your injuries, there are many damages that could be available to you or your family. Speaking with a lawyer can help you better understand what to expect in your claim.
Contact a California Car Accident Lawyer Following an Accident
After a car accident involving a slow driver, you should speak with a California car accident lawyer who is well-versed in California accident laws and can manage your case. It is not always easy to prove that a driver’s slow driving behavior led to your accident, which means that legal help can ensure that you have the evidence necessary to move forward.
At Maison Law, our attorneys are prepared to fight the insurance companies on your behalf. With the resources that you need and the ability to gather the evidence you need, we will work to build a claim for you. We will answer any questions that you have along the way. Contact us for a free and confidential case consultation.
