Most Dangerous Driving Maneuvers Are Illegal in New York
At Ajouny Injury Law, we are dedicated to making the roads of New York safer. To that end, we have compiled this list of the most dangerous driving maneuvers that you should avoid. The most dangerous driving maneuvers are illegal in New York, and the driver who broke the law is usually found to be at fault in a car accident.
If you have been injured in a car accident and you feel the other driver was engaged in any of these dangerous driving maneuvers, you could be entitled to compensation. Contact us today for a free consultation, or keep reading to learn how to stay safe on New York’s roads.
1. Distracted Driving Maneuvers
You might think you are able to drive while eating your lunch, but according to Forbes Advisor, these driving maneuvers are the most dangerous. Distracted driving was the leading cause of car accidents in 2022, involving 28,753 crashes.
The most common distracted driving maneuvers are:
- Talking or texting on a cell phone
- Eating or drinking
- Grooming
- Taking care of children or other passengers
- Changing the radio station
- Using navigation devices
- Looking away from traffic to see something on the side of the road
Not all forms of distracted driving are illegal in New York. Only driving while using a handheld mobile device is outlawed in the state. That doesn’t mean other forms of distracted driving aren’t dangerous, and if you are driving distracted you could be held liable for an accident.
2. Following Too Closely
Following too closely happens often in New York City, even though it violates New York law. Section 1129 of the Vehicle and Traffic Code (VAT) makes following too closely illegal. Every driver has the responsibility to ensure a safe stopping distance for the conditions.
This is especially important in the winter when rain, snow, and sleet are common. These weather events should prompt you to increase your following distance, and if you don’t you could be liable for the resulting accident.
3. Improper Lane Usage and Unsafe Lane Changing
Aggressive use of lanes or aggressive lane changes are among the leading causes of car accidents in New York. This too is guided by New York Law. Section 1128 of the VAT states that you must stay in your own lane except when passing and that you must follow the markings regarding lane changes.
However, other aggressive lane changing could be dangerous, regardless of lane markings. These behaviors are often lumped into the category of reckless driving, making it illegal regardless.
4. Unsafe Speeds
Many people do not understand that the posted speed limit isn’t always the safest speed. The New York Safety Council points out that drivers are required by law to slow down and drive at a safe speed for the conditions and any hazards present.
In rain, sleet, and snow, it takes longer to stop than on dry roads. As a result, drivers should be driving more slowly than the speed limit to be safe. Failing to do so could make you liable in a car accident.
Other Dangerous Driving Maneuvers
Other dangerous driving maneuvers responsible for New York car accidents include:
- Failure to yield right of way
- Ignoring traffic signals or signs
- Backing unsafely
- Turning improperly
All of these causes of 2022 car accidents in New York cited by Forbes Advisor are illegal in the state of New York. However, that doesn’t keep drivers from attempting them. It is important to stay aware of other drivers at all times so that you can drive defensively to try to avoid accidents.
Let Ajouny Injury Law Review Your Car Accident Case
If you have been injured in a car accident in New York and you believe the other driver was using one of these dangerous driving maneuvers, you need to contact our offices at (718) 233-3913 for a free consultation. You could be entitled to compensation for your injuries, damages, and even pain and suffering.
Our firm has years of experience handling car accident cases in New York, with many favorable outcomes for our clients. Contact us today for more information about our qualifications and experience.