An animal on the road could lead to a terrible accident. There are many things Atlanta residents know about car crashes. For example, they know that it’s necessary to have an Atlanta personal injury lawyer handle their auto accident claims. They also understand that determining someone else’s liability is essential to getting maximum compensation for their injuries.
Most of the time, a person’s liability in an accident is due to their disregard for traffic safety rules. It could have been speeding, drunk driving, texting while driving, etc. However, what happens when the cause of the crash isn’t a human being but an animal? Of course, you can’t hold wildlife liable for your personal injury.
Cases like that seem highly complicated — and they are. In this article, we’ll detail everything you must know about wildlife-related auto collisions in Atlanta. However, with help from an experienced Atlanta personal injury lawyer, you can get answers to your questions. That is important because your attorney will provide personalized solutions to your case’s specifics.
How to Avoid Animal-Related Traffic Crashes in Atlanta
Many animal-car collisions happen when animals dash into the road unexpectedly. As such, the best way to avoid wildlife-related auto crashes is to drive like you’re expecting them. Be alert, especially when driving in “high-risk” areas like the countryside or mountains.
To that end, you must do the following:
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Drive Within the Recommended Speed Limit
Some wildlife-related accidents happen because the driver didn’t see an animal standing on the road in time. As such, they couldn’t stop early enough to prevent hitting them. That usually happens when the driver is speeding.
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Use Your High-Beam Headlights
A well-lit environment makes it easier for you to spot wildlife in time. So if you’re driving alone or there are no oncoming vehicles, it’s wise to use your lights. That’s especially when you’re traveling at night or in dark areas.
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Use the Middle Lane
When possible, use the middle lane when driving on a multi-lane as you’re less likely to hit wildlife there. It also gives you more time to make a swift rational reaction to the situation.
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Avoid Sharp Turns
When people see unexpected wildlife on the road, their first instinct is to swerve or make a sharp turn. We don’t recommend that as you’re at high risk of colliding with another vehicle. Instead, hit the brakes to stop right in time to avoid hitting the animal. If you hit the animal, though, it’s much better than colliding with another vehicle.
Who Is Liable When an Animal Causes My Atlanta Auto Accident?
Liability in wildlife-vehicle collisions in Atlanta largely depends on the details of each case and several factors. What type of animal did you hit? Were you speeding or driving negligently? Did the accident involve other vehicles?
The preceding and more will significantly determine who’s at fault in your crash. Below are different categories of wildlife and possible liable parties.
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Domestic Animals
The law mandates owners of domestic animals like dogs, cows, cats, etc., to put them under control at all times. If such animals dashed into the road, their owners would be liable for your injuries. However, if you rammed into them in their legal dwelling, you may be responsible for injuries.
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Wild Animals
When the creature is a wild animal without an owner, you can approach your auto insurance company for compensation. You may also get damages from the local municipality.
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Animal-Related Accidents Involving Other Vehicles
Under Atlanta’s injury laws, swerving to hit another vehicle instead of the animal can count as negligence. You may be responsible for damages in such cases.
What to Do After a Car Crash Caused by an Animal in Atlanta
Here’s what to do after a wildlife-related accident:
- Park your vehicle safely. If you hit wildlife, remain in your vehicle until emergency responders say it’s okay to come out.
- Seek medical attention.
- Call the police.
- Keep a significant distance from the injured creature. A hurt animal is a dangerous one.
- Collect evidence.
- Call your Atlanta car accident attorney.
Don’t Fight Your Atlanta Personal Injury Case Alone
From dogs to cats, deer, squirrels, cars, horses, etc., many animals can cause your car accident in Atlanta. Depending on the details of your case, you can get compensation for your injuries and losses in such crashes. However, to be sure where you stand, you must consult with an Atlanta car accident lawyer.
Our auto crash attorneys at The Weinstein Firm will answer any questions you may have. We will also fight for justice for your case without upfront payments from you. Contact us right now to take advantage of our top-notch legal services. Your 100% satisfaction is guaranteed when you work with us.
