Can a Medical Condition Cause a Car Accident in Georgia?

If you’ve ever read a news story about a single car accident in Georgia, you may have noticed that they don’t always list a cause right away. In situations where the driver is seriously injured or dies, it can be hard to determine what caused the crash. This is especially true for single car accidents because only the driver knows what happened.

There are times when the driver truly doesn’t remember what happened. Or, they’re afraid if they tell the truth, they can get in trouble. Either they’re afraid they’ll get a ticket. Or, they think their insurance claim will be denied if the adjuster learns the truth.

In cases where the driver has no recollection of the crash, it can be caused by a medical condition. You’d be surprised how many times someone suffers a seizure or some other issue right before they get into a car accident. Depending on the type of medical issue, they can be held liable for the crash.

It’s not only single car accidents that can involve a medical condition. It is just as likely that someone suffering from a seizure crashes into another car. If you’re injured in any type of a car accident, you should call an experienced car accident lawyer in Fayetteville, Georgia.

The Driver May Have Suffered an Epileptic Seizure

There are times when someone has epilepsy and doesn’t know it. However, more often than not, a driver is well aware that they have epilepsy. It may have been years since they had a seizure. Or, they’ve never had a major seizure and doesn’t realize how dangerous it can be.

Every state has their own laws when it comes to driving privileges for people with epilepsy. Many states require an epileptic person to go a certain amount of time without a seizure in order to drive. They may also require the driver to submit medical reports stating that they’re okay to drive. Finally, they may have to undergo periodic updates regarding their medical condition.

In Georgia, the following rules apply:

  • You must be 6-months seizure free in order to drive
  • You don’t have to submit a medical report
  • The medical review board will determine whether or not you need to undergo periodic medical evaluations

As long as you meet these criteria, you should be able to drive. The problem is, you could be seizure free for a year. The next thing you know, you’re having a seizure in the middle of bumper to bumper traffic.

Other Medical Conditions Can Cause a Car Accident in Georgia

Aside from epilepsy, there are other medical issues that could cause you to get into an accident. Some of these are temporary while others may plague a driver their entire lives. If the person who hit you suffered from any of these issues, their insurance will probably still cover your accident claim:

  • Heart Attack or Stroke – It’s hard to hold someone responsible for an accident that was caused by their having a heart attack or stroke. The only time this could be the case is if they know they’re at high risk of either of these things. For example, if someone recently had a stroke, they probably shouldn’t be driving. The odds of them having another stroke could be quite high.
  • Blindness – If someone is having trouble with their vision, they shouldn’t be on the road. Someone could get their driver’s license and become blind months later. They are supposed to surrender their license if this happens. However, there is really no system in place to make sure this happens.
  • Pregnancy – If someone is in the last few weeks of their pregnancy, it may not be the best idea to drive. They could go into labor while driving. This will put the lives of the driver, their baby and other motorists at stake.
  • Prescription Medications – Certain medications can impair someone’s ability to drive. For example, if someone takes certain anti-anxiety medications, it will certainly impact their ability to drive.

If any of these things caused your crash, your Fayetteville car accident attorney will pursue your claim. They’ll fight to get you the compensation you deserve.

Contact an Experienced Car Accident Lawyer in Fayetteville, Georgia

If someone experiencing a medical emergency crashes into you, there’s a good chance you’ll suffer serious injuries. This is why you should call a skilled car accident lawyer in Fayetteville, GA right away. They’ll review your case to see who may be responsible. They can also give you an idea of what your case is worth.

Call Wade Law today and schedule your free initial consultation.

View these other frequently asked questions pages:

Do You Have to Go to the Hospital After a Car Accident?

 

When is the Best Time to Sue After a Wreck?

 

Should You Sue Even If You Feel Bad for the Other Driver?