Can you sue a distracted driver for an accident?
Staying focused while driving is essential to keeping yourself and others safe on the road. Drivers face some devastating consequences associated with distracted driving, such as an increased risk of motor vehicle collisions that can jeopardize traffic safety. As a result, it’s important to stay alert behind the wheel.
Driving requires our full attention, yet there are several factors that can pull us away from the road. Visual distractions take your focus off of what’s ahead, manual distractions cause hands to not be on the wheel, and cognitive distraction removes thoughts necessary to operate a vehicle safely; such lapses make crashes more likely – be it with another car or an object beyond its path – or cause vehicles to veer onto wrong routes.
Distracted driving is a major risk factor for accidents on the road, as it reduces drivers’ ability to focus and respond accordingly. Unfortunately, when someone’s attention shifts from their surroundings while they are behind the wheel of a car, not only do other people become vulnerable but so too does that driver – making them responsible for creating an unsafe environment.
Some examples of car accidents that can be caused by distracted driving include:
- Failing to stop at a red light
- Failing to stop or swerve away from a stopped emergency vehicle
- Failing to stop for a pedestrian at a crossroads
- Rear-ending another vehicle
Can you file a personal injury claim against a distracted driver?
Arizona prohibits the use of a cell phone or electronic device while driving. This means texting or talking on the phone is not allowed. Neither is the use of a laptop or tablet. Hands-free use of a phone is allowed. The facts are clear. Using a phone while driving can result in a crash or accident being 23 times more likely.
Texting, calling, scrolling, selfies, social media, tweeting, emailing, etc. All of these actions can cause a distracted driving accident.
This accident can cause serious harm to a fellow driver, a worker on the side of the road, a pedestrian, or a cyclist. A victim can sustain injuries like broken bones, sprained extremities, spinal injuries, and traumatic emotional stress.
When a person is involved in a dispute or in litigation for a personal injury case they’re not only seeking damages for injuries and medical bills. Often, a settlement recovers monetary damages that are tied to a loss in wages. Picture this, what happens if a person’s negligence causes you to not be able to perform your job? If injuries prevent you from fulfilling your duties on the job now and in the future your live would be seriously affected.
Why an Arizona personal injury attorney can help you
After being injured in an accident caused by distracted driving, you may be feeling overwhelmed. However, it is important to remember that the person responsible for your injury and losses can still be held liable through a personal injury claim or lawsuit—allowing you to receive compensation for what has been endured.
As we mentioned earlier, there’s more to seeking monetary damages than for just injuries and medical bills. A settlement can cover the following:
- Pain and Suffering
- Medical Bills
- Traumatic Mental Distress
- Lost Wages
- Permanent Injuries
- Property Damage
Contact Wood Injury Law today
If you were hurt because of an accident caused by a distracted driver, contact us today. Our Personal Injury Attorneys can investigate the facts and face the greedy insurance companies on your behalf. Give us a call at (866) 418-0712 to schedule a free consultation.
