Driver Inexperience
An inexperienced driver can make dangerous mistakes behind the wheel, putting others at risk of serious injury. Car accidents in Chicago caused by driver inexperience often involve unsafe lane changes, failure to yield, and misjudging stopping distances, leading to devastating crashes. Contact us today to find out how driver inexperience can impact liability and compensation in a car accident claim.
How Driver Inexperience Puts You at Risk of an Accident
When an inexperienced driver makes a mistake, you may be the one who suffers the consequences. New drivers often struggle with recognizing hazards, reacting quickly, and maintaining control of their vehicles, which increases the risk of serious accidents. If you were injured because of a careless or inexperienced driver, you may have the right to seek compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.
Failure to Recognize Hazards in Time
Experienced drivers can anticipate potential dangers on the road, but an inexperienced driver may not notice a hazard until it is too late. A driver with little time behind the wheel may fail to see a vehicle stopping ahead, a pedestrian entering a crosswalk, or an obstacle in the road, leading to a collision. These split-second decisions can mean the difference between avoiding an accident and suffering serious injuries such as spinal cord damage or traumatic brain injuries.
Overcorrection and Loss of Control
Many accidents happen when a new driver panics and overcorrects, making an already dangerous situation worse. If a driver drifts onto the shoulder, skids in wet weather, or swerves to avoid an object, they may jerk the wheel too hard, causing them to lose control and crash into another vehicle.
Common Mistakes Inexperienced Drivers Make
When a driver lacks experience, they are more likely to make dangerous mistakes that put others at risk. Some of the most common errors made by inexperienced drivers include:
- Driving too fast for road conditions.
- Following too closely behind other vehicles.
- Failing to check blind spots before changing lanes.
- Braking too hard or too late.
- Taking turns too quickly or too wide.
- Misjudging the speed of oncoming traffic at intersections.
- Ignoring or missing road signs and signals.
- Driving distracted, including texting or adjusting the radio.
- Failing to yield the right of way.
- Driving drowsy or under the influence.
- Forgetting to use turn signals or headlights when required.
- Panicking in emergency situations and overreacting.
How Illinois Driving Laws Affect Liability After an Accident
Illinois recognizes the risks associated with inexperienced drivers and has laws in place to regulate new drivers and their ability to operate vehicles safely. The Illinois Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) Law under 625 ILCS 5/6-107 places restrictions on new drivers, such as limiting the number of passengers they can have, enforcing nighttime driving curfews, and prohibiting cellphone use while driving. If a new driver violated these restrictions and caused your accident, their inexperience may be a critical factor in your claim.
Additionally, Illinois Vehicle Code § 11-601 requires all drivers to adjust their speed based on road conditions. Many inexperienced drivers struggle with driving in bad weather, heavy traffic, or construction zones, which can lead to reckless driving behaviors that put others in danger. If the driver who hit you was speeding or failed to adjust for road conditions, they may be legally responsible for your injuries.
Speak with a Car Accident Lawyer About Your Case
If driver inexperience played a role in your crash, you may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost income, and vehicle repairs. Your car accident attorney from Taxman, Pollock, Murray & Bekkerman, LLC will evaluate the circumstances of your accident and fight for the financial recovery you deserve. Get the answers you need today. Call us or fill out our secured contact form to request your 100% free consultation today.