Distracted Driving Accidents

We live in a hyper-technological world, and some might argue this technology has made life better than ever. However, such benefits come with drawbacks, such as being exposed to dozens of distractions throughout our day, often in motor vehicles.

Distracted driving occurs when someone loses focus on the road for any amount of time, no matter how brief, often leading to a collision. This happens more often than not because of modern technology, a common feature of everyday life.

Digital distraction is a familiar term now, referring to how technology affects our concentration during other tasks. Sadly, some people choose to be in charge of a motor vehicle while distracted regularly, putting others at risk of serious injuries.

If someone caused you or a loved one injury or loss while distracted, they should be liable for your losses. You must take proactive steps to hold them accountable and obtain what you deserve. Never hesitate to discuss the process with a DuBois car accident attorney, as you should never try to handle an injury claim from a distracted driving accident alone.

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Who is Most at Risk from Distracted Driving?

Risky drivers put everyone around them at risk, which makes for a sobering realization if you consider the following:

This year, 47 percent of surveyed drivers admitted to reading or sending a text while driving, 31 percent more than those who admitted to texting and driving just three years ago in the same survey.
57 percent of surveyed drivers admitted to changing or programming a GPS while driving, which studies show is just as dangerous as texting and driving.

While everyone is at risk when someone near them is distracted, some drivers are at a greater risk of becoming distracted and causing an accident.

Commercial Drivers

Truck drivers usually work long hours, clocking up hundreds of miles per day, and often on repetitive routes. The temptation to look at a phone or engage in other distractions during these long drives alone is understandable, but commercial drivers should never use a handheld device in their trucks.

Younger Drivers

While nothing beats having your first car and the freedom it brings, the risk of distracted driving and serious collisions is higher for first-time drivers. Not only are younger people more attached to their phones in many cases, but they also might lack the judgment to realize the extreme dangers of texting and driving.

Parents with Young Children

Anyone who has raised children knows how distracting they can be when driving. A parent alone in the car with a small child might be compelled to repeatedly look or reach into the backseat, creating dangerous situations.

Distracted Driving Forms

There are three major types of distracted driving, all of which can cause severe crashes in a matter of seconds. If another driver hits you while distracted, it is likely due to one of these three scenarios:

Manual distractions – When people take their hands off the steering wheel, it is a manual distraction. They might be wrangling a pet, dealing with children, eating, or texting.
Cognitive distractions – Often, people engage in activities while driving their vehicles that make them lose focus and attention on the road.
Visual distractions – Looking away from the road commonly happens when drivers use their car’s touchscreen or cell phone, or they look into the backseat.

Types of Collisions Due to Distracted Drivers

Distracted driving can lead to various types of collisions on the road, including the following:

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Rear-end collisions: One common type of collision from distracted driving is a rear-end collision. When drivers are not paying attention to the road ahead, they may fail to notice the traffic slowing down or stopping in front of them. This can result in a rear-end collision, causing damage to both vehicles involved and potentially leading to injuries.
Side-swipe collisions: Another collision that occurs due to distracted driving is a side-swipe collision. When drivers are distracted, they may unintentionally drift into another lane and collide with a vehicle driving beside them. Side-swipe collisions can cause significant damage and injuries, particularly if one or both vehicles involved are traveling at high speeds.
Intersection collisions: Distracted driving can also contribute to collisions at intersections. When drivers are not fully focused on the road, they may miss traffic signals or fail to yield the right of way, leading to accidents at intersections. These collisions can be particularly dangerous and have a higher risk of causing severe injuries or fatalities.
Head-on collisions: Some distracted drivers might veer out of their lanes and into oncoming traffic, which can result in often catastrophic head-on collisions. These are some of the most serious crashes on our roads.

Seeking Compensation from Distracted Drivers

Distracted driving accidents can be devastating, resulting in serious injuries, medical expenses, and even the loss of a loved one. In situations like these, always seek legal representation to maximize your chances of receiving fair compensation.

When filing an insurance claim for a distracted driving accident, you want an experienced car accident attorney on your side. They will gather evidence and negotiate with insurance companies to seek the compensation you deserve. Insurance companies may try to minimize your claim or avoid paying altogether, but with the help of a skilled attorney, you can fight back and pursue the full extent of your damages.

Don’t let a distracted driving accident overwhelm you. Take action and contact a car accident attorney to discuss your legal options. They will build a strong claim to fight for your rights and work tirelessly to help you move forward with proper financial support.

Call a Car Accident Attorney Right Away

Robert S. Marcus, DuBois Car Accident Attorney,

If you or a loved one has suffered an injury in a car accident, distracted driving may be to blame. Your recovery is the first priority, so hiring a DuBois personal injury attorney is the right choice, taking the burden of the legal process off your shoulders.

A car accident lawyer will build your case, presenting evidence to show the other driver’s negligence and your losses. Contact a local law firm for a free consultation today.