A Distracted Driving FAQ from A Car Accident Attorney

As a car accident attorney, I regularly help clients that have been hit and injured as a result of a distracted driver. This is becoming a more significant problem as cars are equipped to handle and support numerous electronic devices. Before it was an issue with people bringing their phones into their car to text, talk on the phone, or look for directions. Now, cars are made with Wi-Fi, chargers and apps that create even more reasons to become distracted. I recommend that drivers practice defensive driving by looking to see if any drivers appear distracted in their vicinity. If so, take steps necessary to distance yourself from that vehicle. However, if you are someone that has already been injured by a distracted driver I encourage you to call my office so that we can discuss your options.

What Are the Main Causes of Distracted Driving?

The CDC breaks distracted driving into three main categories. The first being a visual distraction and taking your eyes off of the road. This can happen if someone is reading a text message, looking at their navigator, watching a YouTube video, or even checking their baby in the backseat. Visual distractions can happen at any moment and by taking your eyes off the road for a few seconds you can travel the distance of a football field. This leaves plenty of opportunities for accidents to occur. The second main cause is manual – taking your hands off of the wheel. This happens when people are applying makeup, doing hair, or even eating. The third is a mental distraction and can be as simple as having your mind wander. As a car accident attorney, it doesn’t matter to me why they were distracted. What matters to me is what happens to you after the accident. I am here to ensure that your rights are protected and that you receive the financial compensation you deserve.

How Serious Is Cellphone Use While Driving?

Government statistics show that 660,000 drivers use their cell phone at any given time. Essentially, if you were driving during the day, there is a chance that many drivers around you will be either using their cell phone or manipulating an electronic device. Given that over 430,000 people are injured due to distracted driving and over 3,700 are killed due to distracted driving, this is a serious concern.

How Can I Tell if My Accident Was Caused by Distracted Driving?

As a car accident attorney, I know that you may not always understand what the exact cause of your accident was, initially. This makes it important to investigate the crash and what happened leading up to it. I need to do so in order to prove negligence or fault so that you can receive the maximum financial compensation. Over the course of this investigation, I will let you know if it appears that the driver who hit you had been distracted. Simultaneously, if you have any information that would indicate they were distracted, please let me know. For example, they may admit that they had been on their cell phone.

What Should I Do After Being Hit by A Distracted Driver?

The best way to protect yourself financially is to hire a car accident attorney to represent you. I can do so. I can negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf and represent you in court if necessary. This way you can receive the financial compensation you deserve for your injuries.

NOTE: This is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.