May 23, 2024
Car Accidents

When someone takes the wheel, they are not just driving but piloting a heavy vehicle that can cause harm. Distracted driving is not just a risk—it’s a serious public safety issue. Distracted driving may take many forms that can seem harmless but can easily turn deadly.

If you suffered injuries due to a distracted driver, immediately consult a car accident lawyer near you.

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Texting: A Digital Issue Behind the Wheel

Texting while driving is akin to closing your eyes for five seconds while driving. At 55 miles per hour, it’s like traveling the length of a football field blindfolded. It’s not surprising that texting and driving causes crashes.

A text message can have the concrete consequence of life or death. The act signifies more than just a lapse in judgment. It blatantly disregards safe driving. You can hold texting drivers liable for the harm and losses they cause you.

Eating: A Recipe for a Highway Accident

A man dangerously eats a hot dog and drinks a cold beverage while driving a car.

Now, let’s tackle a less egregious but equally dangerous behavior—eating while driving. While it might seem harmless to save time by eating breakfast on the way to work, eating or drinking, especially messy food or hot beverages like coffee, can distract drivers.

Many Other Distractions

Of course, the above are only two examples of distractions, and some other common distracting activities drivers engage in are:

Phone calls
Using navigation systems
Using in-car entertainment
Tending to kids in the backseat
Arguing with passengers
Daydreaming
Reading

Common Injuries Resulting from Distracted Driving Accidents

The most common injuries suffered in distracted driving accidents include:

Head injuries

Distracted drivers often fail to react in time, leading to sudden, high-impact collisions that can cause traumatic brain injuries, concussions, and skull fractures.

Neck and back injuries

The sudden force of a collision can lead to whiplash, herniated discs, and other spinal cord injuries.

Broken bones

A man with a plaster cast on his broken hand, including a broken thumb and wrist.

Fractures to the arms, legs, ribs, and other bones are common, especially in T-bone or side-impact collisions.

Soft tissue injuries

Sprains, strains, and tears to muscles, ligaments, and tendons are prevalent in distracted driving accidents.

Lacerations and contusions

Cuts, bruises, and other external injuries can occur when the body is thrown against the interior of the vehicle or makes contact with debris.

Chest injuries

The force of the impact can lead to rib fractures, collapsed lungs, and other chest-related trauma.

Internal injuries

Distracted driving accidents can cause internal organ damage – to the liver, spleen, or kidneys.

The severity of these injuries can range from minor to life-threatening, and many injuries can have long-lasting physical and emotional consequences for the victims.

Seeking immediate medical attention and consulting a car accident attorney are critical steps to ensure proper treatment and fair compensation.

Types of Collisions Distracted Drivers Cause

One common type of collision due to distracted driving is a rear-end collision. When a driver is distracted and fails to notice a vehicle in front of them slowing down or coming to a stop, they may not have enough time to react and avoid a collision. Rear-end collisions can result in whiplash, damage to the vehicles involved, and, in severe cases, even fatalities.

Another type of collision that distracted drivers can cause is sideswipe collisions. These occur when a distracted driver drifts into another lane and makes contact with another vehicle traveling parallel to them. Sideswipe collisions can lead to significant damage to both vehicles and injuries to those involved.

Distracted drivers can also cause intersection collisions. When a driver is not fully paying attention and fails to stop at a red light or yield at a stop sign, they can collide with another vehicle with the right of way. Intersection collisions often occur at high speeds and can result in severe injuries or fatalities.

Distracted driving can have serious consequences. Always seek legal representation after a collision caused by a distracted driver. An experienced car accident attorney can handle every detail of your case.

How a Car Accident Lawyer Can Help You With a Distracted Driving Claim

Two collided cars on a white background, symbolizing an accident. Issues of insurance and court cases may arise, involving the hammer of the judge.

A car accident attorney can assist you in several ways when pursuing a distracted driving claim:

Investigating the accident

An attorney will thoroughly investigate the accident’s circumstances, including gathering evidence about the other driver’s distracted behavior, such as witness statements, cell phone records, and any available video footage.

Determining liability

An attorney will analyze the evidence to determine who caused the accident and establish the other driver’s negligence regarding distracted driving.

Calculating damages

A car accident lawyer will assess the full extent of your injuries, medical expenses, lost income, and any other damages you incurred due to the accident. They will then work to ensure you receive fair compensation.

Negotiating with insurance companies

Personal injury attorneys have experience dealing with insurance companies and can negotiate on your behalf to secure a favorable settlement. They understand the tactics insurance companies use and can protect your rights.

Representing you in court

If the attorney cannot reach a settlement, they can file a lawsuit and represent you in court. They have the legal experience to present your case effectively and advocate for the compensation you deserve.

Providing guidance and support

Personal injury attorneys can guide you through the entire legal process, answer your questions, and ensure you understand your rights and options. They can also lead you through the medical and insurance systems.

Consult Your Car Accident Lawyer Today

Hiring a car accident attorney increases your chances of receiving a full and fair settlement for a distracted driver’s negligence. However, do not wait to begin the process. You have limited time for various reasons.

First, evidence can fade if you wait too long to hire a lawyer. They should begin investigating while the evidence is fresh. Further, the law sets a deadline for filing injury lawsuits, which are sometimes necessary to obtain full compensation.

Never wait to seek your free consultation with a personal injury attorney. Doing so sets the legal process into action while you can focus on your medical treatment and physical recovery.