Types of Negligence in Pennsylvania Car Accidents

When people get behind the wheel of any vehicle, they have a responsibility to drive safely. This ensures the safety of themselves as well as others on the road. However, drivers do not always oblige and engage in negligent driving. When this happens, they can cause accidents that inflict serious injuries that have the power to affect a person for the rest of their life. 

Injured victims of negligent driving often wish to hold the driver responsible for their poor behavior. This can be accomplished by pursuing a personal injury lawsuit. Through this process, they may be able to recover compensation for damages incurred because of the accident. During this time, the injured party can benefit from having an experienced attorney to fight for them.

Types of Negligence

Unfortunately, negligent driving is common on the road. Drivers are not always on their best behavior, putting everyone on the road in danger. There are numerous actions that can be classified as driver negligence. These actions can generally be placed in two categories: 

  • Dangerous driving: When a driver does not follow the rules of the road. Dangerous driving can consist of actions such as speeding, reckless driving, improper lane changes, unsafe passing, failure to follow by stop signs and lights, street racing, driving under the influence, and more.
  • Distracted driving: One of the leading causes of automobile accidents in the United States is distracted driving. If drivers are not paying attention to the road at all times, they can put themselves and other drivers in harm’s way. Distractions can include using a cell phone behind the wheel, eating, searching for something in the car, and speaking to other passengers.

Proving Negligence

When a driver acts negligently on the road, they can cause serious and life-impacting injuries as well as possibly death to others.  Victims of negligent driving can hold an irresponsible driver responsible for their actions through a personal injury lawsuit. In doing so, the injured party must satisfy the burden of proof. This can be done by gathering evidence that proves the driver’s poor behavior directly caused the accident and their injuries. Evidence that can be helpful in court can consist of medical documentation of the injuries, a police report from the accident, pictures or videos of the scene, and any witnesses to the incident. 

Contact our Firm

Friedman Schuman Layser is an experienced and dedicated legal resource for clients throughout Pennsylvania. We proudly serve clients facing a wide range of legal matters. If you require the services of an effective attorney, pleasecontactFriedman Schuman Layser today to schedule a consultation.

News & Resources
Pennsylvania’s Hands-Free Driving Law Goes Into Effect

Pennsylvania’s and PennDOT’s new hands-free law, known as Paul Miller’s Law, takes effect on June 5th, 2025, making it illegal to use…

Read more
Friedman Schuman Layser Attorneys Selected As 2025 Super Lawyers & Rising Stars

Friedman Schuman Layser is pleased to share our 2025 Super Lawyers and Rising Star Honorees.   Super Lawyers selects only the top…

Read more
Friedman Schuman Layser - Personal Injury, Medical Malpractice, Real Estate, Corporate & Business Law, Financial Services, Wills, Trusts & Estates
Contact Friedman Schuman Layser!