Distracted driving behaviors pose a significant risk to all drivers. The potential consequences of an accident caused by distracted driving can range from vehicle damage to debilitating personal injuries, possibly even death. If you were involved in a distracted driving accident, having a lawyer by your side can help you to navigate the complex legal system while prioritizing your healing and recovery. A Lafayette distracted driving accident lawyer from the Morris Bart law office can work to provide you with legal representation and seek any forms of compensation and recoverable damages to which you may be entitled. Get in touch with someone in our law office today by picking up the phone and calling us at (337) 446-4571.
Distracted Driving Behaviors
One of the reasons why distracted driving is so dangerous is because they can also prevent accident mitigation efforts, such as decelerating or swerving to avoid a head on impact, from taking place.. Distracted driving also takes many forms. Some of these behaviors may be easier to identify, such as drinking and driving, or texting while driving.Others may be more subtle, yet with equally catastrophic results. Ultimately, any behavior that takes a driver’s focus and attention away from their safe navigation on the roads can qualify as distracted driving behavior.
One of the most common and dangerous forms of distracted driving is operating a smartphone or other mobile device while behind the wheel. With smartphones and tablets seeing widespread use in the modern world, more drivers fail to keep their eyes on the road and off their devices while driving. Similar to driving while intoxicated, operating an electronic device while driving can lead to drastically reduced reaction times and spatial awareness.
As you may have guessed, these kinds of sensory distractions bear potentially dire consequences when combined with high speeds. If a driver fails to notice traffic signals or other vehicles, then high-speed collisions become more likely.
However, distracted driving behaviors are not limited to mobile devices. Even when a driver is adjusting their stereo, their attention may be taken away from the task of safe driving. Drivers who are attempting to eat a meal behind the wheel also present a substantial risk to themselves, their passengers, other drivers, and pedestrians with whom they share the road.
Likewise, a driver who is adjusting their hair or makeup, or otherwise checking in on their appearance in their vehicle’s mirrors is also exhibiting a distracted driving behavior.
Sadly, distracted driving is also more common than many Americans think it is. In 2018 alone, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reported 2,841 deaths and an estimated 400,000 people injured in distracted driving crashes.
With distracted driving accidents being so prevalent in today’s world, it is helpful to have a lawyer who can be by your side after an accident. If you were involved in an accident where you believe the other driver was exhibiting a distracted driving behavior, a Lafayette distracted driving accident lawyer from the Morris Bart law office may be able to help you build a case on your behalf and defend your legal rights.
Call us today at (337) 446-4571, to speak with someone in our law office and learn more about your legal options for free.
For a free legal consultation with a Distracted Driving Accident lawyer serving Lafayette, call 800-537-8185
After a Distracted Driving Accident
Depending on the nature of the accident, it is likely a good idea to notify law enforcement. Some state-specific laws in Louisiana are relevant in any kind of car accident, whether it was caused by distracted driving or not. According to Louisiana Revised Statutes § 32:398, drivers have to report an accident to the local police department if it results in injury or death, or if the accident results in property damage of more than $500.
Following communication with local law enforcement and any emergency medical services that may be needed, car insurance companies and legal teams will do their part to investigate the incident. To do so, they will gather several forms of evidence.
When filing a claim with a car insurance company, it is important to remember that they may do their best to offer you a minimal settlement or even deny your claim outright. If you have a lawyer experienced with these kinds of distracted driving accidents at your side, then they can assist by communicating with car insurance companies on your behalf.
Evidence, such as photographs and video footage captured at the scene of the incident, may be collected. Any relevant information shared in a police report may also be used to determine liability and establish any at-fault parties. Finally, eyewitness reports and testimonies may also be referenced throughout the investigation process.
Pursuing Compensation after a Distracted Driving Accident
Those involved in an accident caused by distracted driving may be entitled to receive compensation. If injuries occurred and medical services were required, then you may be entitled to receive compensation to cover the costs of hospital visits, emergency transportation services, ongoing physical therapy, and other rehabilitation programs. Furthermore, those involved in a distracted driving accident may also be eligible to receive compensation for lost wages, vehicle damage, loss of the ability to enjoy life, and pain and suffering.
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Contact Our Law Office Today
If you were involved in a distracted driving accident, then a Lafayette distracted driving accident lawyer from the Morris Bart law office can offer you legal representation and pursue any compensation that you may be entitled to receive. To speak with someone in our law office today at no cost to you, pick up the phone and call us at (337) 446-4571, for your free consultation.
Questions?Call 800-537-8185
to find a Morris Bart office near you.
