Technological advances in recent years have made our lives simpler and safer in many ways, but it has also created new dangers on our roads. Distracted driving has become one of the most common causes of preventable motor vehicle accidents. According to NHTSA.gov/risky-driving/distracted-driving, approximately 481,000 drivers are using cellphones while driving during the daylight hours. There were almost 3,500 fatalities reported in 2016, and teens were the largest age group of distracted drivers leading to fatalities. The expanded use of technology has created a double-edged sword that has increased danger on the roads in southern Indiana and the Louisville area. Distracted driving has become a real problem that puts many people at great risk for harm in motor vehicle accidents. It just takes a few seconds and the consequences can be devastating.
Distracted Driving is More Than Texting
The increased use of cellphones while driving has garnered national headlines. Most people think of texting when they hear the term "distracted driving," but distracted driving takes many forms. Any activity that causes a driver to take their eyes off the road, hands off the wheel, or mind off driving can create a dangerous situation. At Doane Law Office, LLC, in New Albany, we are acutely aware of the danger that cellphone use poses for individuals and their families.
Common forms of distracted driving include:
- Texting while driving
- Talking on the cellphone
- Adjusting a GPS device or navigation systems
- Eating or drinking behind the wheel
- Drivers interacting with passengers
- Adjusting a radio or entertainment device
- Fatigued driving
- Using the rearview mirror for personal grooming
- Reading or viewing electronic devices
- Fatigued or drowsy driving
Many accidents involve some level of inattention of a driver and are entirely preventable. Unfortunately, the consequences are often suffered by innocent drivers, passengers, pedestrians, bicyclists, and motorcyclists. When a driver intentionally takes his or her eyes off the road to attend to some other activity, the risk of danger to others is intensified. Police reports do not always track distracted driving issues. The problem may be bigger than we realize.
Investigating Distracted Driving Accidents
One of the challenges in distracted driving cases is proving what the driver was doing before the crash occurred.
Police reports do not always identify distracted driving as a contributing factor. In many cases, additional investigation is necessary to uncover the full story.
Compensation for Distracted Driving Accident Victims
If a distracted driver caused your injuries, you may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Loss of earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Permanent disability or impairment
- Property damage
- Wrongful death damages
- Other accident-related losses
Contact a New Albany Distracted Driving Accident Lawyer
If you or a loved one has been injured by a distracted driver, contact Doane Law Office today for a free consultation.
I proudly represent injury victims throughout New Albany, Jeffersonville, Floyd County, Clark County, Louisville, and the surrounding communities.
- Call 812-590-2213
- ✉ Complete our online contact form
There is no fee unless we recover compensation for you.