In a technologically advanced world, one can hardly go a few minutes without checking their cell phone, sending a text, making a call, or otherwise plugging into the cyber-world. Because of this, distracted driving has become a rapidly growing problem on roadways across the country. According to recent statistics, nearly 18% of all traffic accidents are caused by a distracted driver. Each year more than 416,000 people are seriously injured at the hands of a distracted driver, while an additional 3,000 are killed in these preventable collisions, as well. As related fatality rates show no sign of decreasing, a majority of the states across the U.S. have implemented laws prohibiting cell phone use while driving.
Even so, a large percentage of the population continues to text and talk on the phone while navigating their way around town—despite the fact that they are 23 times more likely to be involved in a motor vehicle collision. When engaging in this risky behavior, a driver is severely diminishing their ability to properly react to dangerous situations. By pulling their focus away from their external environment and internalizing their overall awareness, they are putting themselves and all other drivers on the road, at an increased risk of being involved in a serious car accident. In doing so, they have failed to uphold their responsibility of adhering to the rules of the road, and may subsequently be held liable for the harm that they have caused anyone else as a result.
In the event that you have been injured at the hands of a distracted driver, you should know that you have rights. When a driver decides to act negligently and/or carelessly behind the wheel and you are caused physical harm as a result, you have the right to pursue compensation for the pain and suffering that you have been forced to endure. In order to take the appropriate legal action, you should not hesitate to get in touch with an experienced personal injury attorney right away.
Time of the essence when pursuing any type of injury claim—as important evidence needs to be collected and a claim must be filed within the statute of limitations—so do not wait to seek the compensation that you deserve.