Distracted Driving Accidents: Holding Negligent Drivers Accountable  

The Rising Threat of Distracted Driving  

Distracted driving is any activity that diverts attention from driving, including talking or texting on your phone, eating and drinking, talking to people in your vehicle, or fiddling with the stereo, entertainment, or navigation system. According to injuryfacts.nsc.com, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that 3,308 people died in distraction-affected crashes in 2022. 

Texting is particularly concerning because it combines three types of distraction – visual, manual, and cognitive. When a driver reads or sends a text message, they are essentially driving blind for approximately five seconds. At 55 miles per hour, that’s like driving the length of a football field with your eyes closed.  

Impact on Victims and Families  

The aftermath of a distracted driving accident can be devastating. Victims may suffer from severe injuries, including traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, broken bones, and more. The emotional toll is equally profound, impacting the victim’s quality of life and placing a significant burden on their families. Medical bills, lost wages, and long-term care needs add to the stress and hardship. 

At McCune Law Group, we have seen firsthand the havoc that distracted driving wreaks on individuals and communities. Our dedication to our clients drives us to pursue justice relentlessly and hold those responsible for these negligent actions accountable.  

Holding Negligent Drivers Accountable  

When you or a loved one is involved in an accident caused by a distracted driver, it’s crucial to understand your legal rights and options. Here at McCune Law Group, our attorneys work diligently to ensure that victims receive the compensation they deserve. But what does holding negligent drivers accountable involve? 

1. Evidence Collection: One of the first steps is gathering evidence to prove that the driver was distracted. This can include cell phone records, eyewitness testimony, surveillance footage, and police reports. 
2. Establishing Negligence: To secure a favorable outcome, we need to demonstrate that the driver’s distraction directly contributed to the accident. This means proving that the driver owed a duty of care to others on the road, breached that duty by driving while distracted, and caused damage as a result. 
3. Negotiations and Settlements: Many cases are resolved through negotiations with the at-fault driver’s insurance company. Our attorneys are skilled negotiators ensuring that our clients receive a fair settlement that covers medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. 
4. Litigation: If a fair settlement cannot be reached, we are prepared to take the case to court. Our experienced trial attorneys will vigorously represent your interests, aiming for the best possible outcome.  

Prevention and Advocacy 

Beyond the courtroom, McCune Law Group attorneys are dedicated to advocating for safer roads. We support initiatives aimed at reducing distracted driving through education, legislation, and technology. By raising awareness about the dangers of distracted driving, we hope to contribute to a culture shift that prioritizes safety and attentiveness behind the wheel.  

Frequently Asked Questions:  

• How can distracted driving be proven in an accident case? 
  • Evidence of distracted driving can be gathered through cell phone records, eyewitness testimony, surveillance footage, vehicle data logs, and police reports. These pieces of evidence help establish that the driver was not paying full attention to the road at the time of the accident. 
• What are the legal steps involved in holding a distracted driver accountable? 
  • The legal process involves collecting evidence to prove distraction, establishing negligence by showing the driver breached their duty of care, negotiating with insurance companies for settlements, and, if necessary, litigating the case in court to secure fair compensation for the victim. 
• What types of compensation can victims of distracted driving accidents seek? 
  • Victims can seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, property damage, and other related costs. The goal is to cover both the immediate and long-term impacts of the accident on the victim’s life. 
• How long do victims have to file a claim after a distracted driving accident? 
  • The time frame to file a claim, known as the statute of limitations, varies by state. In California, for instance, victims typically have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. It’s important to consult with a lawyer promptly to ensure deadlines are met. 

How to Start Your Potential Case  

Finding the right Personal Injury is crucial to ensuring you receive the appropriate legal representation and compensation for your case. Contacting a highly experienced team member from MLG ensures that your interests will be represented. Here are four steps to help you initiate contact:    

1. Step 1: Research and Gather Information – Before reaching out, gather all relevant information about your case. This includes details about the incident and information about the parties involved. Take note of the date, time, and location of the incident.     
2. Step 2: Call or Complete the Form for Initial Evaluation – Use the provided phone number or online form to contact our team. You may find it helpful to prepare a summary of your case before making the call or completing the form. This will ensure you provide essential details efficiently.     
3. Step 3: Schedule a Free Evaluation – Request a free evaluation to discuss your case in detail. We offer free initial evaluations to assess the viability of your case. During this meeting, you can share the specifics of your situation, ask questions, and get a better understanding of how our team can assist you.     
4. Step 4: Prepare for the Evaluation– Before the scheduled evaluation, organize all relevant documents and be prepared to articulate the details of your case clearly. This will help the attorney assess the merits of your case more effectively. During the evaluation, feel free to ask any questions you may have about the legal process, potential outcomes, and our approach to pedestrian accident cases. 

We are Committed 

Distracted driving is a serious issue that demands attention and action. At McCune Law Group, our attorneys are committed to holding negligent drivers accountable and supporting victims through their recovery journey. If you or a loved one has been affected by a distracted driving accident, don’t hesitate to reach out to us for expert legal assistance. Together, we can make our roads safer and ensure that justice is served.