Medical Emergencies That Increase Atlanta Car Accident Risks
Atlanta car accidents often happen due to speeding, distraction, or other reckless behavior. However, a sudden medical emergency can be just as dangerous.
When a driver suffers an unexpected medical event, they may lose control of their vehicle without warning. These situations can be especially dangerous on major roads like I-285 or I-75, as well as in neighborhoods and busy city streets.
Our experienced Atlanta car accident lawyer explains common types of medical emergencies that increase crash risks and your rights in a claim.
Medical Emergencies That Can Lead to Atlanta Car Accidents
According to the Georgia Department of Health, roughly six out of every ten residents suffer from chronic medical conditions. In addition to jeopardizing their health, these conditions can endanger others on the road.
Medical emergencies can affect drivers of any age, even without a diagnosed medical condition. Those that pose significant hazards behind the wheel include:
- Asthma and other breathing disorders can cause panic, dizziness, and disorientation.
- Diabetic episodes and low blood sugar (hypoglycemia).
- Seizures can cause involuntary movements or blackouts.
- Heart attacks and other cardiac events.
- Strokes can impact coordination and awareness.
In addition to medical emergencies, medication used to manage chronic conditions can also impact driving abilities, increasing Atlanta car accident risks.
How Medical Emergencies Affect Liability and Your Rights in an Atlanta Car Accident Claim
Drivers are not to blame for medical emergencies, but that doesn’t automatically excuse them from liability in an Atlanta car accident claim. Under the Georgia Code, if they knew (or should have known) about the hazards their condition posed and continued driving anyway, they can still be held accountable.
Evidence that can support an injury claim when a crash results from a medical emergency includes:
- Medical records showing whether the driver had a known condition.
- Prescription history and medications that impact driving abilities.
- Driver statements, revealing prior symptoms or warnings, and prior driving records.
- Witness accounts describing how the vehicle was operating before the crash.
- Police reports and observations from the scene.
- Surveillance or dashcam footage showing the driver’s behavior.
- Expert medical testimony, explaining whether the event was preventable.
Unfortunately, insurers are likely to try to use the medical emergency as a defense to deny your claim, even when negligence played a role.
Contact Our Experienced Atlanta Car Accident Lawyer To Protect Your Rights in a Claim
If you were injured in an Atlanta car accident caused by a medical emergency, seeking compensation can be complex. While you may feel sympathy for the other driver and what they suffer, why should you have to pay out of pocket for damaged property, medical bills, lost income, and other costs?
At Shiver Hamilton Campbell, our experienced Atlanta car accident lawyer investigates these cases, works with medical experts, and fights for the compensation you need to recover. To schedule a consultation, call or contact us online. We represent clients throughout the state, including Savannah, Decatur, Marietta, Johns Creek, and all of Gwinnett, Fulton, and DeKalb counties.
Source:
dph.georgia.gov/chronic-disease-prevention
