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If you would like more information, please contact Virginia personal injury attorney Thomas McWeeny of Koonz, McKenney, Johnson & DePaolis L.L.P.
Driving in Virginia can be enjoyable for some yet horrible for others. When driving vehicles, the driver must be aware at all times. This is especially true when there are passengers on board.
The Advocates for Highway and Auto Safety has ranked Virginia as one of the worst states for highway safety. The nonprofit group stated that Virginia’s secondary enforcement laws were weak and do not help motorists. Secondary enforcement laws are rules that can only be enforced if the vehicle was stopped for other driving violations. Some of these secondary laws include restrictions to curb nighttime driving for teenagers, using cell phones while driving, text messaging while driving and the requirement to wear seat belts. The group states that the wrong message is given to drivers from weak secondary enforcement laws.
Many accidents can be prevented if drivers pay more attention to the road. Commonly known as “distracted driving,” texting or using a cell phone while driving is considered dangerous and can lead to car accidents. Curbing teenagers from driving at night can also decrease the number of car accidents in Virginia. Under Virginia law, if you are injured by the negligence of a distracted driver in violation of Virginia traffic laws, you will have proven negligence by operation of law, this is also known as “negligence per se.” In certain circumstances depending upon the conduct, you may even be able to allege “punitive damages” in addition to the monetary relief traditionally available to you.
If you or a loved one suffers injuries or wrongful death because of negligence or driver distraction, please contact a qualified Northern Virginia personal injury lawyer at Koonz, McKenney, Johnson & DePaolis L.L.P.