At some point in our time behind the wheel of a car, we’ve passed car accidents with law enforcement officers and first responders working to assist the injured. As they help those injured people, they are placing their lives at risk while we and others drive by the accident. Move Over Laws are in place to help protect our law enforcement and first responders from suffering catastrophic injuries while in the performance of their jobs on our busy roads and highways.
If you’ve been involved in an accident while on the road, an Atlanta car accident lawyer can help. Most law firms provide prospective clients with a free case consultation. During your consultation, you can share your story with one of their legal representatives, ask questions about your case, and express your concerns. Their lawyers can then explain your rights and help you pursue fair compensation for your injuries and losses.
You Have a Legal Responsibility to Move Over
According to the Georgia Governor’s Office of Highway Safety, the Move Over Law is designed to save lives. If there is a police officer or first responder on the shoulder of the road with their emergency vehicle lights flashing, you are required by law to move over one lane. If traffic conditions prevent you from moving over the one lane, you must then drive below the posted speed limit and, if necessary, be ready to stop while they render aid to the injured party.
If you violate this law, you could face a fine of $500, and repeated offenses could result in higher fines and points on your license.
Situational and Expected Road Hazards Beyond Move Over
The types of hazards that relate to Georgia’s Move Over Law are often easy to spot. Between GPS, radio, and highly visible emergency lights, drivers are aware that they are coming up on an accident. They are then prepared to exercise caution as first responders aid the victims. However, not every road user will be forewarned, but that does not absolve a driver from their duty to drive at a safe speed and follow traffic laws.
Weather-Related Hazards
Drivers may face road hazards due to weather conditions. Fallen trees or power lines can create dangerous obstructions on the road. If these structures strike a passing vehicle, emergency responders will need to attend to the scene. Other drivers must, therefore, navigate around the scene while also observing Move Over Laws.
Construction and Road Work
When drivers encounter road works, they must safely navigate around the site and workers. It is important to note that the Move Over Laws apply to any vehicle with flashing hazard lights on the side of the road. This includes such vehicles as:
- Tow trucks and maintenance vehicles
- Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) vehicles
- Utility department vehicles
- Animal control trucks
- Garbage trucks
As part of continued efforts to protect GDOT and utility workers, the department has implemented several safety measures over the years. These measures are largely aimed at making motorists aware of road work and how to navigate around work zones. These hazard warnings include slow-down messages, lane management information, and LED indicators that are easier to see in bad weather or bright sunshine.
Sources to Plan a Clear Route
Road traffic reports are an excellent source of information for most routes throughout the state of Georgia. Drivers can also turn to weather forecasts to get an idea of driving conditions on any given day. If you are looking for information on current or planned road works, The GDOT should have projects listed on their site for state and federal roadways.
Suffering Injuries Due to Another Driver Failing to Move Over
If you have been in a car accident due to another driver’s negligence, such as failing to adjust to an existing accident or simply being inattentive, you may be eligible to pursue a personal injury claim. A personal injury claim would allow you to collect compensation for the injuries and losses you suffered in the accident.
To pursue compensation, we must prove how the other driver was negligent. We must demonstrate:
- Duty of care
- Breach of duty
- Causation
- Damages
To prove these four elements requires evidence. We would collect evidence such as:
- Police reports
- Medical records
- Photos and video from the accident scene
- Eye-witness statements
We would also consult with experts. Doctors, financial advisors, and accident reconstruction specialists can explain complex issues and validate your claim.
The damages you could recover in your car accident case could include:
- Medical expenses
- Lost income
- Lost earning capacity
- Property damage
- Pain and suffering
- Reduced quality of life
- Emotional distress
- Loss of consortium
There could be other damages you could claim.
Deadlines Vary on Your Car Accident Lawsuit
Personal injury lawsuits must be filed before their statute of limitations expires. The statute of limitations for personal injury, O.C.G.A. § 9-3-33, is two years from the date of the accident. You must file your lawsuit with the courts before this deadline, or you may be barred. The ability to file a lawsuit is a very effective tool during settlement negotiations. The insurance companies are aware of this law, and some may stall your claim in the hopes that the deadline lapses. If it does, you may be unable to collect fair compensation for your losses.
Early action not only protects your right to sue, but it can also protect evidence from being lost or destroyed.
Learn More About Move Over and Your Atlanta Car Accident Today
If you have been injured in a road accident while safely navigating a potential hazard, you may not be at fault. When other drivers ignore the warning signs, it can result in a collision that causes injuries or fatalities. Motorists who do their part to keep our roads safe can seek compensation by consulting with our personal injury lawyer in Georgia.
Contact the Law Office of Dwayne L. Brown in Atlanta, GA, for a free case consultation. Our law firm works on contingency, so you pay nothing unless we win a settlement or court award. Don’t try to take on this legal process alone. We have over 30 years of experience helping personal injury victims. Let us help you get the recovery you deserve.
Call our number today.
