What are they?
Traffic accident victims can rightfully make various claims within the framework of both criminal law and compensation law.
Criminal Case: The victim or their relatives can file a criminal case against the person at fault in the accident.
Compensation Case: The victim or their relatives can demand compensation for the material and moral damages they have suffered. While material damages include expenses such as treatment expenses, lost income, and vehicle repairs, moral damages include suffering, incapacity, and psychological problems.
How Can We Help You as Özkök Law Firm? Who is Held Liable in Traffic Accidents?
Liability in traffic accidents is determined by the degree of fault in the accident. Usually, the driver at fault in the accident is held responsible. However, in some cases, the vehicle owner, the administration responsible for the maintenance of the road, or third parties may also be held responsible.
Driver Liability: The most common situation in the accident is that the driver is held responsible due to his/her fault. Violating traffic rules such as exceeding the speed limit, driving under the influence of alcohol, and carelessness result in the driver’s liability.
Vehicle Owner Liability: In cases where the person driving the vehicle is unlicensed or under the influence of alcohol, the vehicle owner may also be held responsible.
Responsibility of the Administration Responsible for the Maintenance of the Road: In cases where an accident occurs due to reasons such as the road being damaged or inadequately lit, the administration responsible for the maintenance of the road may also be held responsible.
Responsibility of Third Parties: If the intentional or negligent behavior of another person has an effect on the accident, that person may also be held responsible.
What Kind of Penalties Are Given in Cases of Death or Injury in Traffic Accidents?
If death or injury occurs as a result of a traffic accident, one of the crimes specified in the Turkish Penal Code is considered to have been committed. These crimes are generally the crimes of negligent homicide or negligent injury. The penalty to be given is determined according to factors such as the degree of fault in the accident and the extent of the damage suffered by the victim.
Imprisonment: A prison sentence of 2 to 6 years is given for the crime of manslaughter by negligence, and a prison sentence of 6 months to 2 years is given for the crime of wounding by negligence.
Judicial Fine: A judicial fine may also be given in addition to the prison sentence.
Suspension from Duty: If the driver is a public servant, he may be sentenced to suspension from duty.
Suspension from Driving License: The driver may be suspended from his/her license.
Rights of Traffic Accident Victims
If you think your rights have been violated as a result of a traffic accident or if you want to get support in the legal processes related to the accident, we at Özkök Law Firm will be happy to help you. Our expert lawyers will provide you with the best legal service with our team specialized in traffic accidents.
l will support you in protecting your rights and getting the best result by providing legal consultancy services.
Remember: Legal processes resulting from traffic accidents can be quite complicated. Therefore, it is important to consult a lawyer as soon as possible.