Texting behind the wheel is one of the most dangerous negligent driving behaviors. It can distract drivers from safely operating their vehicles, endangering drivers and pedestrians alike. If you are struck by a driver who is preoccupied with a mobile device, it can lead to serious injuries and damage to your motor vehicle. This is because, in many actions, mitigatory actions can be taken at the last minute to minimize damage, and distracted driving can limit or remove this factor entirely.
A Lafayette texting behind-the-wheel lawyer may be able to help you secure compensation if you were struck and injured by a distracted driver. If you want to learn more about what steps you need to take to secure compensation for your accident, start by contacting the Morris Bart law firm. It is easy to reach us; just call (337) 446-4571 for a free consultation.
Drivers Cannot Legally Text and Drive in Lafayette
Under Louisiana Revised Statutes (RS) §32/300.5, it is against the law to text and drive throughout Louisiana. Additionally, texting while driving is considered a primary offense. This means a driver can be pulled over and ticketed just for texting and driving, even if they are not breaking other traffic laws.
You may wonder why the regulations on texting and driving are so strict. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), texting is one of the most distracting things you can do while driving. Drivers who look down to check their phones generally take their eyes off the road for at least five seconds.
If a driver travels at 55 MPH, five seconds is enough time to cross a football field from end to end. On a busy road, taking attention off of the road for this distance could easily lead to a collision.
For a free legal consultation with a Texting Behind the Wheel Accident lawyer serving Lafayette, call 800-537-8185
Types of Accidents Caused by Texting and Driving
Because texting pulls a driver’s eyes and minds away from developments on the road ahead, it can lead to a wide range of accident types. Common accident types that result from texting and driving include:
Head-On Collision
Drivers texting behind the wheel could drift across the centerline into oncoming traffic, which could lead to a head-on collision. These collisions are often very serious, especially if both vehicles are moving at high speeds.
Rear-End Collision
You may be struck from behind if a driver looks down at their phone instead of paying attention to slowing traffic, red lights, or stop signs. A rear-end collision could jerk you around in your vehicle, sometimes leading to serious injuries and whiplash.
Side-Impact Collision
We see a lot of side-impact collisions in intersections. If a driver is texting, they may not realize that they do not have the right-of-way at an intersection. This error could lead them to cross into oncoming traffic, striking your vehicle in the side. A Lafayette texting behind-the-wheel lawyer could help you regardless of the type of accident you experienced.
Liability for a Lafayette Texting and Driving Accident
If a driver who was texting and driving struck you in Lafayette, they may be held responsible for the collision. While texting, they may also be:
- Swerving between lanes or across the centerline
- Failing to observe the speed limit or driving too fast for conditions
- Following too closely or not leaving enough braking distance
- Running a red light or a stop sign
A lawyer may be able to investigate your case to review the exact causes of your accident. Your lawyer may visit the accident scene, speak with witnesses, and draw on the information from your police report when building your claim.
You may only receive compensation for your losses if a lawyer demonstrates that the other driver directly caused your collision. To have Morris Bart law firm start working on your case, call today at (337) 446-4571.
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Seek Damages for Your Losses if Struck by a Texting Driver
However the accident occurred, it may leave you with serious injuries and damage to your vehicle, regardless of their specific causes. You may face high medical expenses for emergency services, surgeries, medications, and physical therapy.
A Lafayette texting behind-the-wheel lawyer could be able to help you work to secure compensation for your healthcare expenses. Your lawyer can review your medical bills to ensure your losses are appropriately covered. In many cases, your lawyer can advise you not to settle your case until you have reached a fair settlement value.
You may also be able to receive compensation for the costs of repairing your vehicle and the wages you lost while recovering from your injuries. In some situations, a lawyer could help you get compensation for your pain and suffering.
Options for Getting Compensated for an Accident in Lafayette
Many motor vehicle accident claims in Lafayette are resolved outside of the courtroom. This resolution typically occurs through a settlement with the other driver’s insurance company. A lawyer can negotiate with insurance agents on your behalf to secure you a settlement.
Sometimes, insurance agents try to offer you a settlement immediately after an accident. They may reach out to you even before you contact a lawyer. This initial settlement can be purposely inadequate and likely does not take any of your medical expenses into account. However, if you accept any money from the insurance company, you may not be eligible for further compensation.
Ensure you have a lawyer assess any settlement insurance agents offer before you accept. In some cases where your lawyer is unsuccessful in working out a fair settlement, they may advise you to file a lawsuit to seek the damages you deserve.
Speak to a Lawyer about Texting Behind the Wheel in Lafayette
Were you struck by a driver who was texting while driving in Lafayette? If so, a member of the team at the Morris Bart law office could be able to help you. Take charge of your case by contacting a Lafayette texting behind-the-wheel lawyer. Start working on your case by filling out our online contact form or calling (337) 446-4571. All case consultations are no obligation and are free.
Questions?Call 800-537-8185
to find a Morris Bart office near you.
