Distracted Drivers Can Cause Serious Injuries
The number of car accidents caused by distracted driving is on a dramatic rise. Talking on a cellphone while driving, texting while driving or emailing while driving significantly affects the driver’s ability to operate a motor vehicle. Recent studies have even indicated that distracted driving is more dangerous than drunk driving.
If you have been injured in a distracted driver accident, you may be eligible for significant compensation. It is important to contact an experienced lawyer as soon as possible to learn about your options. Williams, Walsh & O'Connor, LLC, based in North Haven, Connecticut, can provide you with experienced and compassionate legal representation in a difficult time.
The Dangers Of Mobile Use While Driving
Connecticut law prohibits the use of any handheld mobile electronic device while operating a motor vehicle barring few exceptions. Drivers who are 16 or 17 years of age are prohibited from using a cellphone or mobile device at any time — even with a hands-free accessory.
Distracted driving is any nondriving activity a person engages in while operating a motor vehicle. There are three types of distractions:
- Visual: Taking your eyes off the road
- Manual: Taking your hands off the wheel
- Cognitive: Taking your attention away from driving
All types of distracted driving can cause severe and fatal motor vehicle accidents.
Distractions Can Come In Many Forms
Our law firm represents clients who have been injured in car accidents caused by distracted drivers. Some examples of distracted driving are:
- Cellphone use while driving
- Texting while driving
- Emailing while driving
- Driver fatigue
- Senior driving
As your attorneys, we will investigate your accident to determine the cause and responsible party. Our firm has handled cases involving elderly drivers. Drivers with dementia or Alzheimer’s are a threat to other motorists, as their ability to process information and react appropriately may be skewed. Contact us if you have been involved in an accident caused by an elderly driver.
Our New Haven law firm has also handled cases involving young, inexperienced drivers who were texting or talking on a cellphone at the time of the accident, as well as drunk drivers. No matter who caused your accident, we can help you pursue compensation to alleviate the financial burdens you are facing and offer support throughout the legal process.
What Steps Should You Take Now?
What do you do if you or one of your family members is injured by a distracted driver in Connecticut? These are essential steps:
- Get the medical attention you need. Your health and safety come first. Even if your injuries don’t seem serious, make sure you seek medical attention. Some collision-related medical problems, such as back and neck injuries, may not show up right away, so be safe rather than sorry.
- Document the accident if you can, and get witnesses. If it is possible, having photos of the accident can help your case. Having information about witnesses is also important.
- Make a police report. Be sure local law enforcement officers or state troopers have all the information they need. If they don’t show up at the accident scene, contact the authorities and have them come before you leave the scene.
- Don’t talk to the negligent driver’s insurance company. It will be looking for ways to deny an accident claim or pay minimally on a claim. Sometimes, insurance company representatives will show up very soon after an accident. Do not talk to them if they call you.
- Don’t accept a settlement check until you talk to an attorney. Do not accept a check until you know it is fair. A negligent driver’s insurance company will usually try to lowball a victim to minimize its liability and be done with the claim.
- Talk to an attorney with relevant experience. An experienced car accident attorney can advise you of your legal rights, and present you with options if he or she thinks you have a case. Make sure the attorney you contact understands distracted driving laws in Connecticut.
Hurt By A Distracted Driver? Contact Us For A Free Consultation.
If you are looking for an experienced attorney in North Haven, contact our law firm today to schedule a free consultation. Call us at 203-896-4631.