In some cases, drivers with medical conditions may cause car accidents in Kansas City. These types of car crashes are often complicated. You need to know whether the at-fault driver had a medical condition that contributed to the crash and if that medical condition was the proximate cause of your car accident before you can recover compensation. Accordingly, knowing what to do after a car crash and how a Kansas City accident attorney can help you with a car accident claim is essential. 

Medical Conditions That Can Cause Accidents

driver-holding-chestSome medical conditions can significantly impair a driver's ability to operate a vehicle safely. These medical conditions can be as dangerous as distracted driving or drunk driving for drivers and other motorists.

Epilepsy

Epilepsy is a neurological condition characterized by recurrent seizures, which can occur suddenly and unpredictably. When a driver with epilepsy experiences a seizure while behind the wheel, it can have catastrophic consequences. In such cases, determining fault for a Kansas City car accident caused by a driver's epilepsy can be complex. While the driver with epilepsy may not have intentionally caused the accident, they may still be liable if they knew about their condition and failed to take appropriate precautions. Our Kansas City accident attorneys investigate cases involving drivers with epilepsy and work to establish liability and secure compensation for victims who have suffered injuries or property damage due to a driver's epilepsy-related accident.

Diabetes

Diabetes is a metabolic disorder that affects the body's ability to regulate blood sugar levels. Drivers with uncontrolled diabetes can experience low blood sugar episodes (hypoglycemia) that lead to disorientation, impaired cognitive function, or even loss of consciousness while driving. Establishing fault in accidents involving diabetic drivers is a nuanced process. Our Kansas City car accident lawyers understand the intricacies of such cases, where fault may hinge on whether the driver was aware of their diabetes, had taken necessary precautions, or was adhering to their treatment plan. We work diligently to ensure victims receive the compensation they deserve when diabetes-related accidents occur.

Heart Conditions

Heart conditions, such as heart attacks or arrhythmias, can lead to sudden medical emergencies while driving. When a driver experiences such an event, they may lose control of their vehicle, endangering themselves and others on the road. Determining fault in accidents caused by heart conditions requires a thorough investigation. Our experienced Kansas City accident attorneys collaborate with medical experts to evaluate the driver's medical history, treatment adherence, and whether warning signs were ignored. We aim to hold accountable those responsible for accidents resulting from heart-related emergencies and advocate for the rights of injured parties.

Sleep Disorders

Sleep disorders like sleep apnea and narcolepsy can significantly impair a driver's alertness and reaction time. When individuals with these conditions fail to seek proper treatment or disregard safety guidelines, they become a hazard on the road. Establishing fault in accidents involving sleep-disorder-impaired drivers often involves evaluating the driver's medical history and treatment compliance. Our dedicated Kansas City car accident lawyers work tirelessly to ensure that those who have suffered due to drivers with sleep disorders receive fair compensation and support in their recovery.

Medications

While medications are essential for many individuals to manage various health conditions, some can cause side effects that impair a driver's ability to operate a vehicle safely. Accidents caused by medication-related impairment require a thorough examination of the driver's medication regimen and any warnings about driving while taking certain drugs. Our Kansas City accident attorneys are experienced in handling cases involving medication-related accidents. We investigate the medication's effects on the driver's capabilities and work to establish fault, seeking compensation for victims who have suffered injuries or property damage as a result of a driver's impaired judgment or drowsiness caused by legal drugs.

How to Prove Liability After a Kansas City Crash

A driver is typically liable for a car accident they cause due to their negligent conduct. When it comes to accidents caused by a driver's medical condition, certain factors can contribute to their liability.

The Driver Was Advised Not to Drive

Driving against medical advice can have serious consequences for the driver and others on the road. If a driver chooses to operate a vehicle despite being advised not to do so due to their medical condition, they could be held accountable for any accident they cause.

The Driver Did Not Take Their Medications

Not taking medication as prescribed can negatively impact driving ability, which may result in car accidents.

If a driver fails to adhere to their prescribed medication regimen and that failure causes an accident, they may be held responsible for any resulting damages or injuries to car accident victims. In these instances, securing the medical records of the driver at fault can be pivotal in establishing their liability.

The Driver Did Not Seek Medical Treatment for Symptoms

Ignoring symptoms related to a medical condition and failing to seek treatment can also lead to liability in car accident cases. A driver who did not obtain medical treatment for their symptoms and subsequently caused an accident may be held accountable for the damages suffered by car accident victims.

What to Do After an Accident With a Driver Whose Medical Condition Caused the Crash

Generally, you will take the same steps that you would take after any kind of car accident.

Get Medical Attention

Prompt medical care can help ensure that your injuries are diagnosed, treated, and documented. The diagnosis and treatment can prevent your injuries from worsening and help you recover as fully as possible. Additionally, the medical documentation will be invaluable when pursuing car accident compensation for your injuries.

Secure Evidence

You will need to prove that the other driver caused your accident injuries. Relevant evidence may include:

  • The driver's medical records
  • Witness statements
  • Photographs of the accident scene

A car accident attorney can assist you in this process, helping you build a strong case for compensation.

Consult a Kansas City Injury Lawyer

The experienced car accident attorneys at the personal injury law firm of Foster Wallace can:

  • Provide guidance regarding your legal rights 
  • Help you navigate the complex legal process of a car accident case
  • Maximize your chances of receiving fair compensation for your injuries and losses

Car Accident Compensation

You may empathize with the driver who caused your crash, but that doesn't change your suffering. The other driver's insurance company may compensate you for your car accident injuries, including past and future:

  • Medical costs
  • Lost income
  • Out-of-pocket costs
  • Emotional and psychological trauma
  • Physical pain

These damages can help you move forward and rebuild your life after the accident.

How a Kansas City Car Accident Lawyer Can Help You

Right now, your future may seem daunting and challenging to navigate. However, you don't have to face the future alone. Our Kansas City car accident lawyers can help.

We can guide you through the legal process, protect your rights, and maximize your chances of receiving fair compensation for your injuries and losses caused by a Kansas City car accident. 

An experienced car accident lawyer can help establish causation in your car accident case by demonstrating that the at-fault driver's actions were the direct cause of your injuries. This may involve gathering evidence, such as medical records, expert opinions, and witness statements, to build a strong case in your favor.

Finally, a consultation with a Kansas City car accident lawyer can reassure you during this difficult period. Our car accident attorneys can handle the legal aspects of your case, allowing you to focus on your recovery and rebuilding your life after the accident.