If you have been involved in a car accident caused by a distracted driver, you may be wondering when to get a distracted driving accident attorney. You also may want more information on distracted driving.
Distracted driving is any activity that could divert a person’s attention away from the primary task of driving. All distractions endanger driver, passenger, and bystander safety. Distracted driving can result in accidents, injuries, property damage, or even death.
What are the Three Main Categories of Distracted Driving?
Distracted driving includes three main types: visual, manual, and cognitive.Visual Distractions
Visual distractions occur when you take your eyes off the road. This can include looking at a GPS device, changing the radio station, or even talking to passengers in the car.Manual Distractions
Manual distractions occur when you take your hands off the steering wheel. This can happen when you are fumbling for something in the glove compartment, trying to eat while driving, or reaching for something in the backseat.Cognitive Distractions
Cognitive distractions occur when you take your mind off driving. This can happen when you are daydreaming, lost in thought, or even engrossed in a conversation with passengers.What Counts as Distracted Driving?
Anything that takes your attention away from driving can be considered distracted driving. However, some activities are more likely to be distracted driving than others. Here are a few examples:- Texting
- Talking on the phone
- Eating or drinking
- Talking to passengers
- Using a navigation system
- Adjusting the radio
How Can You Identify a Distracted Driver?
Distracted drivers often act recklessly when driving. Common signs of a distracted driver include tailgating other cars, making sudden stops or starts, swerving in and out of lanes, illegal turns, and using a cell phone while driving. If you see any of these behaviors, it’s best to distance yourself from the driver.What to Do if You’ve Been Involved in an Accident Caused by a Distracted Driver
If you have been involved in a distracted driving accident, there are some steps you need to take in order to ensure your safety and the safety of others.- Pull over to a safe location and turn off your engine.
- Call 911 immediately no matter how serious the situation is. Check yourself and your passengers for injuries.
- If the accident is minor and everyone is okay, exchange insurance information with the other driver(s) involved.
- Take pictures of the damage to both vehicles.
- Call your insurance company to report the accident.
- Keep a record of any medical treatment you receive as a result of the accident. This will be important if you need to file a claim.
When to Get a Distracted Driving Accident Attorney
If you or someone you love has been involved in a distracted driving accident, it’s important to get help from an experienced personal injury lawyer right away. A lawyer can help you investigate the accident, gather evidence, and build a strong case. An experienced lawyer will also know how to deal with insurance companies and protect your rights.How Cummings and Lewis Can Help
The lawyers at Cummings and Lewis have experience handling all types of car accident cases, including those involving distracted drivers. We know what it takes to build a strong case and get our clients the best possible outcome. Contact us today to request a consultation for a distracted driving accident.
With 50+ years of combined legal experience, the attorneys at Cummings & Lewis, LLC represent people who need legal assistance. Our size, experience, and legal knowledge allow us to represent people who face all sorts of legal concerns in state and federal courts.