Driver inattention is among the leading causes of car crashes on U.S. roads. A simple inattention while behind the wheel can result in a fatal accident.
If you or your loved ones have suffered injuries due to another driver’s inattention, seek the help of our Buffalo distracted driving accident lawyer to file an insurance claim or lawsuit. Get in touch with Morelli Law Firm at (212) 751-9800 today to start your pursuit of justice.
Distracted Driving Claims
According to a 2015 National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) study, the U.S. recorded about 3,500 fatalities resulting from distracted driving that year. The figure had risen from 8.8% from the previous year. The rising cases of distracted driving injuries and fatalities have made the behavior a significant concern.
There are severe consequences associated with distracted driving. Suppose you or your loved ones get involved in an accident as a result of a distracted driver. In that case, consider filing a lawsuit against the driver seeking monetary compensation for your injuries, damages, and other losses from the accident. However, you need to provide proof showing that the driver’s attention was not on the road to validate your claim.
A Buffalo distracted driving accident lawyer can help you organize the evidence to build a case against all at-fault parties.
The Common Types of Distractions for Drivers
Several factors can distract a driver while behind the wheel. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there are three types of distracted driving. In the process of gathering evidence to file a claim, these can serve as crucial information sources.
1. Manual Distractions
This type of distraction occurs when the driver’s attention shifts to something else involving the hands, affecting the ability to control the automobile. The driver will sometimes give more attention to the distraction and lose focus on the road.
Some of the joint distractions in this category include:
- Making and receiving calls on cellular phones
- Texting
- Eating or drinking
- Engaging in forms of personal grooming while driving
- Adjusting the stereo system
2. Visual Distractions
They are dangerous because they make drivers shift their eyes from the wheel and the road. Sometimes, manual and visual distractions overlap—for example, texting results in manual and visual distractions.
The common forms of visual distractions include:
- Reading text messages
- Scrolling through the cell phone
- Using the rear mirror to check one’s appearance
- Paying more attention to passenger conversations
- Exploring maps displayed on the dashboard’s screens
- Watching videos from electronic devices, including cell phones
3. Cognitive Distractions
The distraction diverts the driver’s mind off the road for an extended period. It is a mental distraction that can result in a dangerous car crash as the driver becomes absent-minded and loses focus on the road.
Some of the causes of cognitive distraction include:
- Focusing on stressful situations unrelated to driving
- Depression
- Fatigue
- Fantasizing about past moments
- Drug and alcohol abuse withdrawals
- Hangovers
Buffalo Distracted Driving Accident Lawyer Near Me 877-751-9800
Laws Against Distracted Driving in New York
New York’s Vehicle and Traffic Laws (VAT) §1225-D reads that it is illegal to compose, send, read, transmit, access, or retrieve any form of electronic data while driving. The laws also prohibit individuals from playing games and viewing, sharing, or taking images while behind the wheel. Drivers violating these regulations are liable for prosecution under the New York state traffic rules.
How to Handle Insurance Companies
After your car accident, call your insurance company and notify them about the accident. The next step is filing a compensation claim against the at-fault parties.
A lawyer can guide you through filing the claim and the process of collecting evidence. Having an attorney by your side will help relieve the legal burden and any possible guesswork while dealing with the relevant insurance company.
Insurance companies earn revenues by denying even legitimate claims. Often, accident victims find themselves in a situation where they are battling a system that is difficult to navigate. People who sue insurance companies without seeking legal representations can end up receiving less compensation than they deserved.
A lawyer will manage negotiations with insurance adjusters to ensure you get what you deserve. Do not sign any agreements with your insurance company without your lawyer’s presence.
Do not allow your insurance company to decide the monetary value of your compensation. Reach out to Morelli Law Firm through (212) 751-9800, and we will help ensure you receive the compensation you are entitled to.
Obtain Compensation through a Buffalo Distracted Driving Accident Lawyer
Distracted driving is classified as a form of negligence. However, you have to prove that the driver is legally responsible for the accident, which is often complicated. The evidence should verify that the at-fault driver breached a duty of exercising caution, causing the accident.
An attorney can determine which types of evidence to use and how to build a case. Some of the common damages you can recover include:
- Physical impairment and disability
- Disfigurement
- Lost past and future income
- Post-accident emergency medical treatment
- Current and future medical expenses
- Replacement of property destroyed in the accident
- Mental suffering and physical pain
There may be compensation available for other types of damages besides these, too.
Contact Morelli Law Firm
Our Buffalo distracted driving accident lawyer can offer help. Reach out to us today. We will evaluate your case, seek other professionals to substantiate your injuries, and file a claim on your behalf. Contact Morelli Law Firm at (212) 751-9800 to schedule a consultation.