What Causes Distracted Driver Accidents?
We live in a world of constant distraction and stimulation, and this can be a major downfall when we are driving. Some of the most common distractions which can and have resulted in accidents include:
• Using your cell phone when driving
• Eating or drinking
• Changing a radio station or song on your phone
• Putting on makeup, combing your hair or any other grooming activity
• Adjusting the heating, air conditioning, lights or mirrors
• Checking the GPS or reading a map
• Having a conversation with a passenger
• Reacting to activity in the back seat or elsewhere in the car, such as an animal or insect
• Searching for something elsewhere in the vehicle
• Being easily distracted by pedestrians or things going on outside the car
These are just a few examples of common distractions which could be very dangerous for you and your passengers. Anything which detracts your attention from the task at hand—driving—is a potential hazard, and every effort should be made to avoid this.
There are three main types of distraction, and all of the examples above can be broken down to fit into one of these categories:
Manual: the driver is required to take their hands off the steering wheel. Examples include searching for something else inside the car or applying lipstick.
Visual: the driver is required to take their eyes off the road; for example, being distracted by something on the back seat or looking at a text message.
Cognitive: the driver is required to take their mind off the road. Examples include checking the GPS.
Seeking Compensation With a Distracted Driver Accident Lawyer
Being involved in a car accident is a stressful and traumatic experience and one which you deserve to be compensated for. To be successful in these incidents, you must be able to prove that the other motorist was engaged in an activity which distracted them from driving safely.
Different states have different laws and requirements, but in Washington, it has been illegal to hold a cell phone, tablet or smartphone, or any electronic device, while you are driving since July 2017. Other states may differ, but there is likely to be some sort of regulation around this action.
If you are involved in an accident caused by a distracted driver, you should contact one of our experienced lawyers. Our entire team in Brain Injury Law of Seattle has extensive knowledge and insight into this area of the law. Their assistance will be valuable in proving that the driver was negligent, and in helping you seek the compensation you deserve.
Other Types of Car Accidents
Distracted Driver Accident Attorney
Drunk Driver Accident Lawyer
Elderly Driver Accident Lawyer
Failure to Yield Accident Lawyer
Head-on Collision Lawyer
Multiple-Vehicle Car Accident Lawyer
No-Contact Accident Lawyer
Poor Vehicle Maintenance Accident Lawyer
Rear-End Collision Lawyer
Red and Yellow Light Accident Lawyer
Road Rage Accident Lawyer
Rollover Accident Lawyer
T-Bone Car Accident Lawyer
Teen Driver Accident Lawyer
Tire Blowout Auto Accident Lawyer
Uninsured Motorist Accident Lawyer
