Hit by a Distracted Driver? You Could be Eligible for Compensation

 Posted on July 29, 2019 in Car Accidents

By now, most people have heard about the dangers of texting while driving or other types of distracted driving. However, studies show that a significant number of motorists are still dangerously distracted while operating a vehicle. In 2017, over 3,000 people nationwide lost their lives in accidents involving distracted drivers, and countless more were injured. If you or a loved one were hurt in an accident caused by a negligent driver, you may be able to receive compensation for your damages.

Types of Distracted Driving

Although we often hear about the dangers of texting and driving, this is not the only form of distracted driving which causes serious auto accidents. Some motorists have actually admitted to checking social media or using other phone applications while driving too. GPS devices are also a major cause of distracted driving. However, electronic devices are not the only thing that takes our attention off of the road. Studies have shown that activities like eating, changing the radio station, searching through a purse or wallet, and smoking while driving also increase the chances of being involved in an injury-causing motor vehicle accident.

Perhaps the most under-recognized type of distracted driving occurs when a driver is distracted by his or her passengers. A study conducted by Monash University found that children are an astounding 12 times more distracting than cell phone use while driving. In fact, researchers found that parents take their eyes off the road for an average of over three minutes per every 16-minute trip.

Pursuing Compensation for a Car Accident Caused by Distracted Driving

If you or a loved one have been in a serious car accident caused by a negligent driver, you may have an overwhelming amount of financial losses. Most people hurt in car accidents are left with ambulance fees, emergency room bills, expenses related to physical therapy or other on-going medical treatment, property damage, and more. Even worse, many individuals are unable to work for weeks or months after a serious car accident, so they face even further financial stress and uncertainty.

Although auto insurance companies are supposed to provide reimbursement for financial damages related to car accidents, these companies are notorious for only offering partial compensation. Through a personal injury lawsuit, you can pursue compensation for the full extent of your damages. You may even be able to receive compensation for things like decreased future earning capacity and lost wages due to missed work.

Contact a Winnebago County, Illinois Car Accident Attorney

To learn more about how a personal injury lawsuit can help you get your life back on track after a car accident, contact a knowledgeable Rockford personal injury lawyer from Mannarino & Brasfield, A Division of Schwartz Injury Law. Schedule a free consultation by calling us at 815-215-7561 today.

Sources:

https://www.nhtsa.gov/risky-driving/distracted-driving

https://www.monash.edu/news/articles/children-more-distracting-than-mobile-phones