Improper Passing Accidents
The roads in our state can be unpredictable as it is, but improper passing is one of the biggest reasons behind serious collisions on California roadways. It could be a driver darting around another in a no-passing zone or trying to squeeze past one the shoulder when things just aren’t moving fast enough. Either way, actions like these can have devastating consequences.
Victims can be looking at life-changing injuries, seemingly endless medical bills, and complex liability issues. The legal team at Pacific Attorney Group leverages a deep knowledge of California traffic and negligence laws with a client-first approach. We don’t just help you file your claim, we help you get a clear understanding of each step in the process. Here, we’ll see why improper passing accidents are so uniquely dangerous and how specialized legal support can end up making all the difference when it comes to pursuing compensation.
Table of Contents
- What are Improper Passing Accidents?
- Brief Overview
- Injuries Common to Improper Passing Accidents
- Your Legal Rights and Options
- How We Can Help
- FAQs
- Next Steps
Key Takeaways
- From initial demand letters to courtroom representation, we tailor our legal strategy to maximize your recovery under California law.
- We gather all relevant evidence—accident scene photos, traffic‑camera footage, and expert analysis—to establish fault in dangerous passing maneuvers.
- You’ll enjoy transparent communication, including regular case updates and professional guidance, at every stage.
What are Improper Passing Accidents?
An improper passing accident is what it’s called when one driver tries to pass another in violation of traffic laws and common sense safety rules. Below are some of the most common scenarios where improper passing is seen.
- Passing in a solid-line or other marked no-passing zone
- Cutting back into the lane of traffic too soon
- Using emergency lanes or the shoulder for passing
- Passing on the right, when there is no designated lane
Since passing tends to happen at higher speed, as well as in areas with more limitations to traffic visibility, they can lead to devastating accidents. Improper passing is one of the leading causes of head-on collisions, side-swipes, and multi-vehicle pileups. Under California Vehicle Code Sections 21750 through 21755, drivers owe a strict duty of care to only pass other vehicles when it is both safe and legal.
Violating these rules can create the foundation of a negligence claim, making it possible for injured victims to pursue the compensation they are owed. Compensation for injuries sustained in improper passing accidents can include lost wages, diminished capacity to earn, medical costs both present and future, and pain and suffering.
Injuries Common to Improper Passing Accidents
Your Legal Rights and Options
If you’ve been injured in an accident due to improper passing, and it wasn’t your fault, California gives you specific rights to seek compensation for your damages and losses. Under the legal framework of negligence established by the state, you must prove the other driver was in breach of their duty of care. Then, you’ll need to prove that this breach directly caused your injuries.
Types of Compensation Available to Victims
There is a wide variety of damage types and monetary losses for which victims can pursue compensation. Below are some of the most common, though consulting with a leading local attorney may open up other avenues of compensation.
- Medical Expenses: Past, present, and future treatment costs. Often, this is up to the point of “maximum medical improvement”.
- Lost Wages: Income lost during recovery, including diminished earning capacity. This means you can recover income you lost while injured, as well as income you would have earned had you not been permanently injured.
- Pain and Suffering: Physical pain, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life. Often, these are referred to as non-economic damages, and while they’re harder to prove, they can be very valuable.
- Property Damage: Repair or replacement of your vehicle and other personal property. This includes everything from your car to your glasses and phone. If it was damaged in the accident, it will typically count.
Statute of Limitations
In California, victims of improper passing accidents typically have two years from the date of the accident to file their personal injury claim. There are always extenuating circumstances, but the smartest move is to contact an attorney on the day of or as soon as possible after the accident.
How We Can Help
The legal team at Pacific Attorney Group consistently exercises peerless knowledge of California traffic laws and accident reconstruction techniques. We conduct investigations and consult with experts to build the strongest case for your claim.
We’ll handle all the paperwork, and if the insurance company refuses to settle, rest easy knowing we’ll provide expert representation both in and out of the courtroom. On top of it all, you’ll get regular updates so you always know exactly what’s going on with your case.
FAQs
What if the other driver claims I was at fault?
California’s modified comparative negligence rule allows you to recover damages as long as you are less than 50% at fault. If you are found to have partial fault, recovery is reduced by your percentage of fault.
How long will my case take?
Simple cases may resolve within 6–12 months through settlement. More complex or contested cases can take 1–2 years or longer, especially if they go to trial.
Do I need to see a doctor immediately?
Yes. You should see a doctor right away, even if you don’t feel injured. Prompt medical evaluation not only protects your health but also creates critical documentation linking your injuries to the accident, which strengthens your claim.
Trust Pacific Attorney Group for Your Improper Passing Accident Case
When you choose Pacific Attorney Group for your improper passing accident case, you gain a dedicated legal team committed to protecting your rights and securing the compensation you deserve. We offer a free, no‑obligation consultation to discuss the specifics of your accident and evaluate your legal options. With our contingency‑fee promise, you won’t owe any attorney fees unless we win your case. Reach out today to get started recovering the compensation you’re entitled to.