Rochester, New York, Car Accidents During Test Drives

Jed Dietrich, Esq., Celebrated as a Super Lawyer and American Institute of Trial Lawyers Litigator of the Year, and His Team of Dedicated, Zealous, and Clever Attorneys at the Dietrich Law Firm P.C. Aggressively Pursue Claims to Seek Justice for Victims Who were Injured in Car Crashes During Test Drives in Rochester, New York, Throughout Monroe County, and Beyond.

Whether you are shopping for a used car at Garber Pre-Owned Super Center or a new car at WNY Auto Sales, test driving vehicles is one of the most exciting parts of buying a car. Since you are going to spend hard-earned money on the car, you want to ensure that it is the right fit for you. Therefore, going out for a spin is an essential step in the car-buying process. You can get the feel of the vehicle, see how fast it accelerates, and if the inside is comfortable enough. Have you ever taken a car for a test drive, and the salesperson encouraged you to go a little faster or test out the brakes? While these types of tactics might help sell cars, giving in to the salesperson’s encouragement could put you at risk. Although crashes during test drives are rare, car accidents can happen at any time.

Drivers of unfamiliar vehicles are more susceptible to crashing than motorists who regularly drive the same car. Test driving a new vehicle in heavy traffic could be stressful if you are not adequately prepared. However, no special rules apply to test drivers regarding liability for accidents that occur when road-testing a new vehicle. Suppose that you, or someone close to you, were involved in a test-driving car accident. In that case, you are probably unsure who will pay for your hospital bills, lost earnings, pain and suffering, and other losses that you may have incurred. The best of the best at the Dietrich Law Firm P.C. has assisted thousands of victims and their families in overcoming dreadful collisions.

Insurance companies and negligent parties have paid Jed Dietrich, Esq., and his gifted team at least $1,000,000.00 or more 44 times for injured victims in Rochester, New York, throughout Western New York, and beyond. Jed Dietrich, Esq., distinguished as a Best Lawyer of America, has over 23 years of practice obtaining the finest possible result for clients. The Dietrich Law Firm P.C.’s battle-tested attorneys have a long track record for obtaining fast and satisfactory settlements for car accident claims. Our high standard of legal representation has earned us over 100 five-star google reviews and strong praise from previous clients. The Dietrich Law Firm P.C.’s seasoned litigators would love the chance to evaluate your claim. Our leading attorneys provide free, no-obligation consultations. Contact us around the clock by dialing (585) 939-3939 or by completing our online consultation form.

As with any other collision, usually, the person who causes the accident during the road test will be considered at fault. Depending on the unique circumstances surrounding your accident, responsible parties may include:

1. The Test Driver: New York law does not provide any special liability exceptions for accidents caused by test drivers. If a test driver causes a collision, he or she can be held responsible. That is why it is critical to always use reasonable caution and develop a comfort level with the vehicle. Fortunately, even if you were partly to blame for the crash, you may still be entitled to recover compensation for your damages.

Our veteran Rochester, New York, car accident attorneys can investigate your accident to determine who should be held liable. It is crucial to contact us before making any statements or agreeing to a settlement.

Just like in other types of car accidents, test drivers can make mistakes, like failing to yield the right-of-way, running red lights, not signaling properly, failing to check their blind spots before changing lanes, and even distracted driving. Being behind the wheel of an unfamiliar vehicle does not shield you from liability. Even test drivers are expected to become acquainted with the car’s handling, acceleration, braking, and other features before driving. Every driver is legally obligated to use proper caution and avoid unnecessary accidents. Before driving off the lot, the Dietrich Law Firm P.C.’s elite attorneys recommend doing the following:

1. Take a couple of minutes to familiarize yourself with the vehicle and its settings;
2. Adjust the rearview and side-view mirrors to provide maximum visibility and prevent dangerous blind spots;
3. Position the driver’s seat to ensure that the gas and brake pedals are easily within reach;
4. Determine where the turn signal, wipers, and headlights are located;
5. Drive the car around the lot at least once before pulling out onto the street;
6. Gently step on the gas a few times to get a feel for the vehicle’s acceleration;
7. Step on the brakes several times to become accustomed to the vehicle’s stopping distance; and
8. Always wear your seatbelt!

Following the above suggestions before leaving the lot can help to ensure that you are adequately prepared. Trying to adjust the seat, mirrors, or other settings in a new vehicle while driving in traffic is a terrible idea. Making even minor adjustments while driving on the road is considered distracted driving. In case of an accident, you could be deemed negligent and found liable.

New York state requires all car dealerships to carry insurance for the vehicles on their lots. Therefore, test drivers are typically covered under the fleet policy, which should protect against damages caused by a test drive crash regardless of who was at fault. Nevertheless, dealing with the dealership and its insurance company can be problematic, and any mistakes could have a dire impact on your potential compensation. The Dietrich Law Firm P.C.’s seasoned team is highly practiced in investigating car accidents and discovering the truth. Jed Dietrich, Esq.’s legal representation can provide you with substantial benefits, such as obtaining a faster and substantially greater settlement package. Kindly contact our veteran attorneys at (585) 939-3939 to obtain your free case evaluation and legal guidance. The Dietrich Law Firm P.C. is proud to represent clients throughout Rochester, New York, Monroe County, and all surrounding areas.

Call the Dietrich Law Firm P.C. immediately at (585) 939-3939 so that our aggressive, tenacious and hardworking personal injury lawyers can fight to obtain the best result for your personal injury claim in Rochester, New York. We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and there is never a fee until we WIN for you!