Long Beach Distracted Driving Accident Attorney
Distracted driving can cause devastating injuries. At Harting Simkins & Ryan, LLP, we are standing by to help if you need a Long Beach distracted driving accident attorney to help you through this. Unfortunately, distracted driving tends to be much more common in and around the Long Beach area and can even be more common than impaired driving, leading to an increased chance of accidents. When an accident does happen, victims need help. We can completely investigate your Long Beach car accident claim.
Dangers of Distracted Driving in Long Beach
Distracted driving poses a significant danger to everyone on the road. In Long Beach, the prevalence of distracted driving has led to numerous accidents, causing serious injuries and even wrongful death. When a driver takes their attention away from the road, even for a few seconds, the consequences can be catastrophic. Distracted driving reduces reaction times, impairs judgment, and increases the likelihood of collisions.
How to Prove Distracted Driving Caused the Accident in Long Beach
Distracted driving happens all the time. You may look over and see someone using their phone or trying to wrangle pets in their lap. Yet, after an accident, proving that a distraction caused your accident can be more challenging. Your Long Beach distracted driving accident attorney will help you build a case based on all of the available evidence. Here are some examples of the evidence they may seek after an accident:
- Witness statements from other passengers in your car or other vehicles
- Evidence at the scene, such as food wrappers, indicates they were eating
- Text messages and phone call timestamps that demonstrate what the driver was doing
- Black box data for commercial trucks
- Dash camera video that shows what occurred
- Accident reconstruction resources that showcase what took place
- Police records that indicate evidence law enforcement found
- Statements from the driver about what they were doing were made to you or others
The more information and evidence available, the more likely it is that you can obtain a claim based on distracted driving. A robust level of evidence is not always possible or necessary. Yet, you can expect your distracted driving accident lawyer in Long Beach to be thorough in seeking all available evidence.
Damages You Can Recover from a Long Beach Distracted Driving Accident Claim
Victims of a distracted driving accident can seek damages for any losses they can demonstrate they have. You can expect your Long Beach personal injury attorney to work closely with you to understand all of the implications the accident has had on your health, well-being, and financial future. Some of the damages you may be able to recover include:
- Medical bills from the accident, as well as expected ongoing medical care costs
- Lost wages from being unable to go to work
- ·Property damage to your vehicle or other assets
- Emotional trauma and the onset of conditions like anxiety and stress
- Pain and suffering encountered at the time of the accident and throughout recovery
- Loss of earning capacity if you cannot do the same type of work any longer
- Chronic pain development impacts your quality of life
- Loss of consortium
In each situation, your lawyer will seek evidence to document the value of your losses. The more thorough you are in doing so, the more likely it is that you will recover fair damages.
What to Do After a Distracted Driving Accident in Long Beach
If you are in an accident with a distracted driver, take action to protect yourself. After you call 911, work to gather as much information as you can if it is safe to do so. For example, take photos of the damage to your car and their vehicle. If available, take photos of the interior of the car. Listen to what the driver says as well. For example, if they state they were “looking at their phone” or that they were “trying to deal with the kids,” that is evidence that could be used later to help you build your case.
After these steps, seek medical care. Your examination will also help to substantiate your injuries and losses. Follow through with all of the care recommended for you from the ER doctor.
Then, contact an attorney. Once your medical care is set, do not hesitate to turn to an attorney for guidance on how to build your case.
Types of Distracted Driving
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), distracted driving can be categorized into three main types: visual, manual, and cognitive.
- Visual distractions. These occur when drivers take their eyes off the road. Examples include looking at a GPS device, reading a text message, or glancing at a billboard.
- Manual distractions. These involve taking one or both hands off the wheel. Common examples include eating, adjusting the radio, or using a cell phone.
- Cognitive distractions. These happen when a driver’s mind is not focused on driving. This can occur when a driver is daydreaming, talking to passengers, or thinking about personal problems.
Each type of distraction can significantly impair a driver’s ability to operate their vehicle safely, increasing the risk of an accident.
What Should You Do If You See a Distracted Driver in Long Beach?
If you notice a driver who appears to be distracted, there are several steps you can take to protect yourself and others on the road:
- Maintain a safe distance. Keep a safe distance from the distracted driver to avoid any sudden movements or unexpected actions they might take.
- Do not engage. Avoid trying to signal or confront the distracted driver. This can escalate the situation and put you at greater risk.
- Report the driver. If you believe the distracted driver poses a significant threat to public safety, report the vehicle to local law enforcement. Provide the make, model, and license plate number, if possible.
California Laws That Combat Reckless Driving
California has implemented several laws to combat distracted driving and promote safer roadways. Understanding these laws can help drivers comply with regulations and avoid accidents:
- Hands-free law. California law prohibits drivers from holding and using a cell phone while operating a vehicle. Drivers are required to use hands-free technology, such as Bluetooth, to make calls or use navigation systems.
- Texting ban. It is illegal to write, send, or read text messages while driving in California. This includes text-based communication like emails and instant messages.
- Restrictions for young drivers. Drivers under the age of 18 are prohibited from using any electronic communication device while driving, even if it is hands-free.
- Increased penalties. Violations of distracted driving laws can result in fines and points on the driver’s record. Repeat offenders may face higher penalties and additional consequences.
These laws aim to reduce the incidence of distracted driving and enhance safety for all road users. However, despite these regulations, distracted driving remains a significant issue, necessitating vigilant enforcement and public awareness. If you have been injured by a distracted driver, contact our Long Beach motorcycle accident attorney today.