Distracted driving includes a variety of activities that remove the driver’s focus from the roadway. Distracted driving can include any activity that distracts the driver’s attention, including physical, visual and mental distractions.
Distracted driving can present a serious danger to the millions of other drivers and passengers who share the roadways with distracted drivers each day. Distractions can include cell phone use and texting while driving but can also include more basic forms of distraction, such as eating while driving, grooming while driving or tending to pets and children while driving. Distracted driving can result in car accidents leading to injuries and death.
Distracted driving can also result in citations for distracted driving, which may be used as evidence if the victim of a distracted driving accident brings a claim for damages. Distracted driving is banned in most states, though each state takes a different approach concerning the penalties a driver may face if pulled over by police.
When a victim has been harmed by a distracted driver, they may be able to hold the negligent driver responsible for the damages through a personal injury claim that seeks to recover the victim’s medical expenses, lost wages and pain and suffering. Victims and their families do not need to unnecessarily suffer the physical, financial and emotional losses associated with an accident caused by a careless driver and should be familiar with the legal options that are available to protect them. If you have been injured by a negligent driver, you may wish to consult an attorney to discuss your options.
Source: FindLaw, “Distracted Driving,” Accessed March 20, 2017