Errors In Judgement

All motor vehicle operators in Ontario have a duty of care when they drive on Canada’s roadways. When drivers do not drive carefully, they make mistakes. These errors in judgment cause many car accidents in Ottawa as well as the rest of Canada.

If you are the victim of a car accident that was caused by another driver’s error in judgment, you can suddenly find yourself facing severe injuries that impact every area of your life. You are likely entitled to compensation for your losses, and an experienced Ottawa personal injury lawyer can help you hold the at-fault parties liable for your losses.

The Four Categories of Errors in Judgment

A large number of motor vehicle accidents occur due to some type of error made by drivers. Errors in judgment among motor vehicle operators tend to fall into one of the four following categories:

• Decision errors. These errors occur when a driver makes a poor decision that subsequently endangers either the driver or other motorists on the road. One of the most common examples of an error in judgment is changing lanes when there is not an adequate distance from other vehicles on the road.
• Non-performance errors. This category includes errors that result in accidents, but which cannot be linked to a driver’s poor driving skills. For example, fatigued driving is responsible for a number of accidents each year in Ontario.
• Performance errors. Errors of this nature are associated with a driver’s ability to operate a motor vehicle as opposed to choices the driver makes. One of the most common performance-based errors is poor steering skills. Other common examples of performance errors include drivers who do not apply adequate pressure to the brakes or gas.
• Recognition errors. These errors occur when a motor vehicle operator becomes distracted. As a result, that driver is not able to recognize traffic signs or road conditions with adequate enough time to respond. Some common examples of recognition errors include failure to notice stop signs, traffic lights, or one-way warnings.

Common Examples of Driver Error

There are a number of ways in which driver errors occur, but some of the most common examples include:

• Failure to use signals. When drivers fail to use turn signals in Ontario, it can quickly lead to confusion and uncertainty for other drivers on the road. Not only is important to use signals when necessary, but it is also just as important to make sure your vehicle is promptly repaired in case a turn signal stops working.
• Improper lane changes. Drivers who fail to merge or change lanes properly cause a number of accidents. If a driver plans on performing this type of driving maneuver, he or she must make sure to both signal and check the lane that they plan on entering.
• Blind spots. A number of drivers fail to look in their blind spots, which is the term used to refer to an area near a vehicle where a person’s view is obstructed. By remaining focused on the road and surrounding conditions as well as physically looking over your shoulder before changing lanes, it is possible to greatly reduce the risk that you become involved in blind spot accidents.
• Many drivers believe that speeding is cool, but in reality, this is one of the most common types of driver errors. By speeding, drivers increase their chances that they will not be able to stop suddenly if an emergency occurs. The chances of accidents occurring rises substantially when drivers speed in adverse weather conditions. Not only are speeding motorists at risk of being seriously injured but other motorists, as well as passengers, can also be harmed. Many drivers who travel long distances over time learn that they are able to avoid speeding through the use of cruise control.
• Driving on the wrong side of the road. Drivers who become distracted while driving and fail to pay attention to signals can promptly find themselves traveling in the wrong direction. These collisions are some of the deadliest that can occur on Ontario’s roads. One tactic to avoid wrong-way accidents is to remain focused on the road and to review directions before driving somewhere new.
• Ignoring stoplights. Stoplights serve the important purpose of controlling traffic. If drivers fail to obey stop lights, they can up causing deadly accidents. One of the best ways to make sure you follow all traffic lights on the road is to eliminate any potential distractions before getting into your vehicle.
• Not leaving adequate distance. There are a number of important rules that all motor vehicle drivers must remember to follow, which include maintaining a safe distance from other vehicles on the road. By leaving an adequate distance from other vehicles, drivers can avoid a number of catastrophic accidents. The best way to make sure that your vehicle is a safe distance from other vehicles on the road is to implement the three-second rule. First, pick a spot in the distance. Then, make sure there is at least a three-second period between when the vehicle in front of you passes that spot and when you later pass that same spot. If there is less than a three-second gap, you are following too close.
• Not knowing directions. Drivers must pay attention to driving and the road. Not knowing where you are headed can cause you to make mistakes regarding traffic signs and driving conditions. This type of driving condition can ultimately result in car collisions. To avoid these accidents, drivers should know their directions before heading out on the road.

Speak with an Experienced Accident Lawyer

Motorists can end up facing a number of serious complications if another driver makes an error in judgment while on the road. At Preszler Injury Lawyers, we know what it takes to hold the responsible parties accountable for the damages they have caused. Contact our law office today to schedule a free initial case evaluation.