Knowing what to do next is critical when a car accident happens in Burbank. Burbank has seen its share of traffic incidents, and being prepared can make a big difference. Knowing what to do next can help you handle the situation more smoothly if you're involved in a collision.
At Tulekyan Law Personal Injury Lawyers, we aim to provide essential information and support through every step. If you have suffered a major injury traffic collision, you must know what to do next.
A motor vehicle collision remains one of the most common causes of serious injuries in the local area. Whether due to street racing or otherwise, you should know your rights. Learn more about car crashes below. Then, contact us to schedule a free case consultation.
Brake Check Accidents in California: What You Need to Know
Brake check accidents can lead to severe injuries for drivers and passengers in either vehicle. While brake checking is often used as an aggressive response to tailgating, it’s a risky maneuver with potentially serious consequences.
What Is a Brake Check?
A brake check occurs when a driver intentionally taps or slams on their brakes to force a tailgating vehicle to back off. Picture this: you're driving along the 101, nearing the Laurel Canyon Boulevard exit. Suddenly, another car starts tailgating you. Frustrated and just trying to get home, you might feel tempted to brake check them to send a message.
While this defensive tactic may seem effective, it’s best avoided. Brake checking not only violates the law but can also result in accidents, injuries, and legal liability.
California Law on Brake Checks
Under California Vehicle Code Section 2209, “no person shall stop or suddenly decrease the speed of a vehicle on a highway without first giving an appropriate signal.”
Despite this law, some drivers continue to use brake checks as a way to deal with tailgaters. However, these actions are extremely dangerous and can lead to serious crashes involving multiple vehicles.
Liability for Brake Check Accidents in California
If a brake check causes an accident, the driver who performed the maneuver could be held liable. California follows a pure comparative fault system, meaning both drivers involved in an accident can share responsibility.
Here’s how it works:
- If you’re found to be 25% at fault, your compensation will be reduced by 25%.
- If you’re 100% at fault, you won’t be able to recover any damages.
While you may feel justified to brake check a tailgater, the risks far outweigh the momentary satisfaction.
The Risks of Brake Checking
Performing a brake check can have serious consequences, including:
- Causing an Accident: You risk colliding with the tailgater or even involving other vehicles on the road.
- Injuries to Yourself and Others: Both drivers and passengers could suffer severe injuries.
- Escalating Road Rage: The other driver may respond aggressively, escalating an already tense situation.
Stay Safe on the Road
Instead of brake checking, try these safer alternatives to deal with tailgaters:
- Gradually change lanes to let them pass.
- Maintain a steady speed and avoid engaging with their behavior.
- If the situation becomes unsafe, pull over in a secure location and report the aggressive driver to law enforcement.
Remember, your safety is more important than proving a point. Brake checking may seem like a quick fix, but the consequences can be long-lasting and life-changing.
Road rage is equally dangerous and poses a growing threat across California. Recent reports highlight that the state ranks among the most confrontational in the country when it comes to aggressive driving incidents.
If another driver is tailgating you, the safest response is to switch to another lane and allow them to pass, rather than engaging in a brake check. This simple action can prevent accidents and help de-escalate tensions.
Should someone brake check you, a dash cam can be an invaluable tool. The video footage it records can serve as compelling evidence for your insurance claim, helping to establish the at-fault party’s liability.
If you’ve been involved in a brake check accident in California, consider contacting experienced Los Angeles car accident attorneys at Tulekyan Law. The legal complexities of such cases can lead to various outcomes, but having a knowledgeable lawyer on your side is critical for securing fair compensation.
If you're involved in a similar car accident, you may sustain a variety of injuries, including:
- Whiplash
- Organ Damage
- Traumatic Brain Injury
- Back Pain
- Neck Pain
- Broken Bones
- Internal Bleeding
- Scarring and Disfigurement
- Cuts and Lacerations
Hiring a Los Angeles Personal Injury Lawyer ensures you receive skilled representation. The attorneys at Tulekyan Law bring extensive experience and a reliable team committed to thoroughly investigating every aspect of your case.
We have successfully assisted clients in recovering compensation for car accident injuries, including:
- Pain and Suffering
- Loss of Wages
- Current and Future Medical Expenses
If a sudden brake check caused a serious car accident, contact our LA attorneys at Tulekyan Law today. Our team is ready to assist you and can provide more information about our services, including a free consultation.
