Distracted driving is a major cause of car accidents in Florida. In 2019, there were 48,000 distracted driving crashes in the state, resulting in over 3,500 serious injuries and 233 fatalities. If you have been injured in a car accident caused by a distracted driver, contacting legal representation from a Florida distracted driving lawyer is important.
Distracted driving is any activity that diverts a driver's attention away from the road. This can include texting, talking on the phone, eating or drinking, adjusting the radio or GPS, and even daydreaming. When a driver is distracted, they are more likely to make mistakes, react slowly to changing road conditions, and cause an accident.
If you have been injured in a car accident caused by a distracted driver, you may be entitled to compensation for:
However, proving that the other driver was distracted during the accident can be challenging. That's where a Florida distracted driver lawyer can help. An experienced personal injury lawyer at Hinkle Law Firm will:
Your lawyer will also negotiate with the other driver's insurance company to ensure you receive a fair settlement.
When choosing a Florida distracted driving lawyer, it's essential to look for someone with experience handling these types of cases. You should also look for a lawyer who is:
We work on a contingency basis for personal injury claims. A contingency fee basis means we do not charge you anything unless we win a settlement in or out of court. This fee structure ensures we work hard for your case and that you don't have even more out-of-pocket expenses during a stressful time. We also offer contingency fee schedules for other practice areas, such as:
Any activity that takes a driver's attention away from the road can be considered distracted driving. Unfortunately, these distractions can lead to severe injuries and even fatalities. Here's a look at some of the most common injuries caused by distracted drivers:
Whiplash is a common injury that occurs when a person's head is suddenly jerked forward or backward. This can happen in a car accident when a distracted driver rear-ends another vehicle. Symptoms of whiplash can include neck pain, stiffness, and headaches. In severe cases, whiplash can lead to chronic pain and even disability.
Car accidents caused by distracted driving can also result in broken bones. This can happen when a driver swerves into another lane, causing a collision. Broken bones can be painful and may require surgery to repair. In some cases, broken bones can lead to long-term complications, such as chronic pain or limited mobility.
One of the most serious injuries that can be caused by distracted driving is a traumatic brain injury. This can occur when a person's head hits an object, such as the steering wheel or dashboard, during an accident. Symptoms of a traumatic brain injury can include headaches, dizziness, confusion, and memory loss. In severe cases, a traumatic brain injury can lead to permanent disability or death.
Spinal cord injuries can occur when a person's spinal cord is damaged during an accident. This can result in a loss of sensation or movement in the arms, legs, or other parts of the body. In severe cases, spinal cord injuries can lead to paralysis.
Being involved in a car accident caused by a distracted driver can also lead to emotional trauma. This can include anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Emotional trauma can be just as debilitating as physical injuries and may require therapy or other forms of treatment.
Distracted driving is a severe problem that can lead to many injuries. If you or someone you love has been injured in an accident caused by a distracted driver, it's important to seek medical attention immediately. You may also consider speaking with a personal injury lawyer to learn more about your legal rights and options. Remember, distracted driving is preventable. By staying focused on the road and avoiding distractions, we can help make our roads safer.
There are three main types of distracted driving:
These are distractions that take a driver's eyes off the road. Examples include texting, looking at a map, or checking a GPS.
These are distractions that take a driver's hands off the steering wheel. Examples include eating, drinking, or adjusting the radio.
These are distractions that take a driver's mind off the road. Examples include daydreaming, talking on the phone, or having a heated conversation with a passenger.
Distracted driving is a dangerous behavior that can have serious consequences. When a driver is distracted, they are more likely to miss important cues on the road, such as a stop sign or a pedestrian crossing. This can lead to accidents, injuries, and even fatalities. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), distracted driving claimed 2,841 lives in 2018 alone.
Distracted driving has become a serious issue, with thousands of accidents and fatalities occurring each year due to drivers who are not fully focused on the road. But the good news is that there are steps you can take to prevent distracted driving and keep yourself and others safe on the road.
One of the biggest culprits of distracted driving is the use of smartphones. To prevent this, put your phone away while driving. You can turn it off, put it in a bag or purse in the backseat, or use a hands-free device to make calls.
Another way to prevent distracted driving is by planning ahead. Before you get on the road, ensure you have everything you need for your trip, such as snacks, drinks, and entertainment. This will help you avoid reaching for things while driving.
Eating and drinking while driving can also be a distraction. If you need to eat or drink on the road, pull over to a safe location first.
Many cars today come equipped with in-car technology, such as GPS systems and entertainment centers. While these can be convenient, they can also be a distraction. To prevent distracted driving, avoid using these systems while driving. Instead, set up your GPS before driving and choose your entertainment before you hit the road.
Finally, one of the best ways to prevent distracted driving is simply focusing on the road. This means keeping your eyes on the road, your hands on the wheel, and your mind focused on driving. Avoid anything that could distract your attention from driving, such as checking your phone or adjusting your radio.
Distracted driving is a serious issue, but these steps can help prevent accidents and keep yourself and others safe on the road. Remember, when you're behind the wheel, you should focus on driving – nothing else.
No, using your phone while stopped at a red light is illegal and unsafe.
The compensation you can recover after a Florida distracted driving accident depends on several factors, including the severity of your injuries, the amount of property damage, and the extent of your financial losses. Generally, you may be able to recover damages for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage. The best way to determine your potential compensation is to consult a personal injury attorney who can evaluate your case and guide your legal options.
Distracted driving is a common problem in Florida, with many accidents caused by drivers who are not focused on the road. Despite laws and campaigns to raise awareness, many drivers continue to engage in distracting activities while behind the wheel, such as texting, using social media, or eating. All drivers must prioritize safety and stay focused on driving to prevent accidents and protect themselves and others on the road.
Florida's distracted driving law prohibits drivers from texting while driving and other distractions that could cause accidents or impair driving abilities. The law also prohibits using handheld devices while driving in school and construction zones. Violating the law can result in fines and points on your driver's license.
The penalty for distracted driving in Florida varies depending on the offense. For a first offense, the penalty is a $30 fine, but for a second offense, the fine increases to $60, and three points are added to the driver's license. If the driver causes a crash while distracted, they may face more severe penalties, including fines and license suspension. It is essential to avoid distracted driving to ensure the safety of yourself and others on the road.
If you have been injured in a car accident caused by a distracted driver, our experienced car accident lawyers can help. Contact us today.
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