Distracted Driving Accident
It’s true that many of us believe that driving a car is simple, but it actually requires a great deal of attention. It may be second nature to some people now, but for many others, learning how to handle something weighing over a ton and capable of reaching 60 mph in less than two seconds might still be daunting. Unfortunately, once certain individuals develop a good level of expertise behind the wheel, they begin to take it for granted and ignore it. This might lead to people doing other things while driving instead of concentrating on the primary goal of driving their car. If you have been in a vehicle accident caused by a distracted driver, you are very likely to receive the compensation you require to cover any expenses incurred as a result of the collision.
Now is the time to contact us to speak about your accident during our free consultation. You can put your rehabilitation first when you work with Texas Personal Injury Lawyers because we are working on your behalf to help you receive the compensation and justice that you deserve.
What Are The Types Of Distracted Driving?
Distracted driving is divided into three different types, as follows:
Manual Distractions
– There are several distractions in which the driver takes one or both hands off the wheel to perform other activities. Eating, drinking, applying makeup, modifying the infotainment system, and personal grooming are just a few of the typical manual diversions.
Visual Distractions
– When the driver’s attention is diverted, it’s known as a “distraction.” Reading texts on your phone, utilizing the car’s GPS system, speaking to a passenger while you drive, or inspecting your vanity mirror are all examples of this kind of distraction.
Cognitive Distractions
– With these distractions, the driver’s attention is diverted away from the primary goal of driving. Daydreaming, having a conversation on the phone or with a passenger, and attending to pets or misbehaving children are all examples of this.
It’s no surprise that these kinds of diversions are hazardous since they distract you from the primary purpose of driving. Even a minor distraction at the wrong place and moment might result in an accident. That is also why texting while driving is so harmful since it combines all three forms of distractedness at the same time.
Common Injuries from Car Accidents
- Back and neck injuries
- Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
- Tingling and numbness running into your hands and feet
- Brain injuries and concussions
- Broken bones, burns, and amputations
- Soft tissue injuries
- Whiplash-type injuries
- Muscle strains and sprains
Although obtaining compensation for medical treatment, therapy, rehabilitation, and lost wages will not repair the damage done, it can go a long way toward alleviating financial problems and getting you back on your feet.
What Can Be Done to Prevent Distracted Driving?
Lawmakers in several states have already stepped up their efforts to curb Distracted Driving by raising fines for drivers that look away from the road.
For example, in Texas, all drivers are prohibited from texting while driving. For novice drivers or those with a driver’s license for less than one year, state law also prohibits any form of cell phone usage while driving. According to the Supreme Court, both of these are “primary laws,” implying that an officer may begin a traffic stop if they observe any of these actions.
Many drivers, especially young ones, do not follow these laws. According to a University of Michigan Transportation Research Institute study, 25% of teenagers admitted to responding to at least one text message while driving every now and then, while 20% of teens said they engage in lengthy multi-text discussions while behind the wheel.
These are some of the most important steps that everyone can take to avoid Distracted Driving:
Have A Conversation With Your Kids:
If you have a young driver in your house, educate them about the significance of keeping their phones in their pocket until they reach their destination. Teens should be aware that driving is a serious responsibility and that distracted driving is irresponsible and dangerous behavior.
Be A Good Role Model:
If you want your young drivers to keep their phones in their pockets, the easiest approach is to set an excellent example. Although you have prior driving experience, distracted driving is never safe, and even an experienced driver can be caught off guard.
Plan Ahead:
Before you begin your trip, turn off all electronic devices, including the radio and GPS system. This will help you resist the urge to glance away from the road while driving.
Your Phone Is For Emergencies Only:
The only time it is safe to utilize your phone while driving is when you are stopped and pulled over to the side of the road. Use your cell phone only in case of an emergency.
Spread The Word:
If you expect a significant call or email, speak to the other person before leaving. Let them know that you will be in the vehicle and will respond as soon as possible. No call, text, or email is worth risking your safety or those of the drivers around you.
Focus On Driving:
Park your vehicle before you feel the urge to eat, apply makeup, have a conversation with your passengers, or care for any pets or young children in the car. When driving, don’t allow anything divert you away from the job at hand.
What Can You Do If You Are Injured In A Distracted Driving Accident?
You should seek medical attention following any traffic accident, just like you would after any other accident. Your health and well-being should come first. Minor pains and aches might be indicators of a more severe issue. Even if you don’t think your injuries are serious, it’s always better to visit a doctor following a vehicle accident.
When a distracted driver causes an accident, he or she is frequently charged with a traffic infraction. If motorist texts while driving, for example, he or she will most likely be fined for violating the law (texting while driving is illegal in Texas). In addition to being penalized as a crime, the distracted driver is also accountable for any damage caused by the collision.
However, in the same manner, as in any other vehicle accident, you must show that the distracted driver was responsible for the collision and that you incurred losses as a result of it. A traffic citation alone does not suffice to establish negligence in a distracted driving incident; however, it may be used in conjunction with other evidence to show guilt.
As a result, you should obtain the assistance of a knowledgeable Knoxville auto accident lawyer as soon as feasible following a distracted driving incident. Your attorney may conduct an extensive accident investigation to unearth evidence that can be used to show the other driver was at fault for the collision and thus accountable for your losses.
Victims of distracted driving incidents are eligible for economic and non-economic damages, including but not limited to:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Property damage
- Funeral expenses, in the event of a death
- Loss of future earning capacity
- Physical pain
- Emotional suffering and mental anguish
- Other out-of-pocket expenses related to the accident (i.e. travel expenses, personal care, medical supplies.)
The compensation you may be entitled to vary depending on your unique circumstances. Texas Personal Injury Lawyers provide free case evaluations so you can learn more about your accident claim without obligation.
We Can Help If A Distracted Driver Injured You
We see the devastation caused by carelessness and distraction on a daily basis. You might be unable to work for months if you’re hurt in a vehicle accident, and you’ll be buried under a mountain of medical expenses. We can assist you.
We’ll be happy to answer any of your questions and help you determine the finest legal solution for you.
There’s never a charge when you contact us. When you need some legal assistance, we’re here for you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. We work on a contingency fee basis, no upfront fees and we only earn fees if we win.