Experience can, and likely will, determine your ability to collect damages for injuries after an accident. After an injury from a car crash, the attorney you choose can have a major impact on the results of your case. Your lawyer will work with you to develop a comprehensive plan to keep your case moving forward.
by Meaghan T. Baca, Esq.
At Cassidy Baca, P.C., We Care About Family
It is common while driving to see people glancing at their phones, changing the radio station, or grabbing a quick bite. But have you ever wondered how these seemingly harmless actions can transform a routine drive into a catastrophic accident? In this article, we will go over the ins-and-outs of lawsuits for injuries due to distracted driving.
Understanding Distracted Driving
Why is This Important?
Picture yourself driving your route from work to home, and your phone pings with an incoming text. Your first instinct might be to check the message, but in that split second, your attention wanders from the roadway, and you crash into the car in front of you. This is distracted driving. Any activity that diverts your attention from driving could be considered “distracted driving.” For example, texting on your phone, putting on makeup, yelling at your kids in the back seat, and even day dreaming can all be considered distracted driver dangers.
Legal Implications of Distracted Driving
In any car accident case, the claimant has the burden of proving the other driver was negligent, or in other words at-fault for the crash. Generally, someone is negligent when they have behaved or acted in a way that opposes a reasonable standard of care or violates a specific traffic law. Accidents caused by distracted drivers usually result in legal claims against that driver.
Consequences of Distracted Driving
The consequences of distracted driving can vary. Sometimes, a small or quick distraction will result in just a fender bender, but other times, there can be severe consequences. For example, cell phone use and car accidents are one of the leading causes of death on the roadway. A short glance at your phone can result in serious bodily injury – just one of the many consequences of texting while driving.
How to Prove Distracted Driving
When it comes to proving distracted driving as the cause of a collision, evidence supporting your claim is crucial. Evidence to support your claim might come from reviewing the other driver’s cellphone records or gathering witness statements that corroborate the driver’s behavior. This type of evidence is imperative in proving personal injury claims for distracted driving.
Avoiding Distractions Behind the Wheel
The impact of distracted driving can be devastating for everyone involved. That is why prevention of distracted driver accidents is so important. Here are some ways to avoid distractions while driving:
Use a hands-free device to receive calls
IF you must take that call. Otherwise, it is better to silence your phone while driving and call or text back when you’re vehicle is safely in park.
Secure pets in proper kennels or pet harnesses
Unrestrained pets can be a significant distraction while driving.
Avoid grooming while driving
Do not put on makeup or style while you’re operating a vehicle.
Stay calm and focused
Emotional distress can be a significant distraction. Stay calm, focused, and avoid engaging in heated conversations while driving.
We Can Empower Ourselves With Knowledge
Remember that understanding how distracted driving endangers you and other’s safety can empower you to make informed decisions. If you’ve been injured in a car accident due to distracted driving, call one of our attorneys to evaluate your case quickly.
What to do After a Car Accident in Albuquerque
Your actions right now may play an important part in determining the results of your auto accident case. Take the following steps to help ensure your case is preserved.
Seek Medical Attention
Check yourself for injuries and get to safety as soon as possible.
Contact the Police
Call 9-11 right away to report your accident. Request an ambulance if you are in pain, or immediately follow-up with your doctor or an urgent care visit.
Gather Evidence and Contact Information
Take pictures, exchange information with the other driver, and cooperate with any police investigation.
Document Your Injuries
Scheduling a visit with a medical doctor right away is important.
Take a Break
Don’t post on social media, and don’t speak with an adjuster without your attorney present.
Contact a Car Accident Attorney
The experienced accident attorneys at Cassidy Baca, P.C. are ready to help you understand all of your legal options after an injury.
Speak with an Experienced Car Accident Lawyer Right Away
The attorneys at Cassidy Baca, P.C. are dedicated to providing top-notch legal services, and we focus on achieving fair compensation for those injured through no fault of their own.
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Speak with an Experienced Severe Injury Lawyer in Albuquerque Right Away.
If you have been severely injured in an auto accident, car crash, or truck collision in Sandoval County, contact our Albuquerque Injury attorneys for a free case evaluation today.