How Common Are Distracted Driving Accidents?
Every year, thousands of people are injured or killed due to distracted driving. In fact, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 3,522 people lost their lives in distracted driving-related car accidents in 2021 alone. Distracted driving is now the leading cause of car accidents in the United States, surpassing drunk driving.
What Are the Causes of Distracted Driving?
Distracted driving is a serious issue that can lead to accidents and injuries. The act involves any activity that diverts attention from driving, which includes but is not limited to:
- Talking on Cellphones: This is one of the most common distractions while driving as it takes the driver's attention away from the road.
- Texting and Smartphone Manipulation: Texting while driving is especially dangerous because it requires visual, manual, and cognitive attention.
- Talking with Another Passenger: Engaging in deep conversations can distract the driver from focusing on the road.
- Eating and Drinking: Consuming food or drinks while driving requires drivers to take their hands off the wheel and their eyes off the road.
- Using Electronic Devices: This includes adjusting the vehicle's radio, GPS, or climate controls.
- Reaching for Objects: Grasping behind for a water bottle, bag, or other travel necessity can cause distraction.
- Interacting with Pets or Insects Inside the Vehicle: Dealing with pets or insects in the car can divert the driver's attention.
- Cognitive Distractions: These can lead to "inattention blindness" where drivers fail to comprehend or process information from objects in front of them.
Understanding these common causes of distracted driving can help drivers be more aware and take measures to prevent such behaviors.
Seeking Compensation for Your Injuries
If you were injured in a distracted driving accident, you may be entitled to compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and other expenses. You may also be entitled to compensation for pain and suffering and other damages.
Our personal injury attorneys can help you recover the compensation you need. Our team can work with medical experts to calculate the full extent of your injuries, including those that are not immediately apparent. We can also work with accident reconstructionists to determine exactly what happened and who was at fault.
Comprehensive Legal Support for Distracted Driving Victims
We understand the emotional and financial strain that can come with a distracted driving accident. Our attorneys are here to help you fight for justice and get the compensation you deserve. We will take on all aspects of your case, from gathering evidence to negotiating with insurance companies. With our experience and dedication, we’ll strive to make sure that you receive the best possible outcome in the shortest amount of time.
Our compassionate attorneys will be with you every step of the way as we work together to build a strong case on your behalf. We’ll listen to your story and guide you through the whole process so that you don’t feel overwhelmed. Our team is here to provide the support and advice you need in order for things to go as smoothly as possible.
If you’ve been injured in a distracted driving accident, let us take the burden off of your shoulders.
Learn more about your legal options by calling (605) 349-2221 or by contacting us online.
