Driving while distracted can be as dangerous as operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol, since activities like using cell phones take drivers’ eyes off of the road. Fortunately, local laws establish that drivers must navigate reasonably and safely. This requires limiting or eliminating distractions that could lead to an accident.
If you were struck by a motorist who was not paying attention to the road, a knowledgeable vehicle collision attorney could outline how plaintiffs usually handle distracted driving car accidents in Marietta.
Types Behind the Wheel Distractions
Most distractions fall into one of three general categories. Visual distractions cause the driver’s eyes to look at something other than the road. Manual diversions cause them to take their hands off of the wheel to deal with another object. Finally, cognitive distractions take their mind off of driving and onto something else.
Each of these attention diverting activities is uniquely dangerous. Many distractions even fall into multiple categories, making them particularly hazardous. Common examples of distracting behavior include but are not limited to:
- Texting while driving
- Looking at or updating social media
- Having a phone conversation
- Watching a movie or television show
- Eating or drinking while navigating
- Fixating on distractions on the road
- Driving while overly exhausted
- Fiddling with the radio
- Engaging in disrupting conversations with children or passengers
Any of these activities could result in an accident that leaves individuals with severe injuries. A diligent attorney in Marietta could investigate a crash to determine which type of distracted driving a defendant engaged in.
Proving Negligence in Distracted Driving Collisions
To prove that a defendant engaged in negligent behavior by driving distracted, it is crucial to collect as much evidence as possible. Valuable information includes police reports, witness accounts of the crash, and expert reconstructions of the accident. Plaintiffs could also implement records of their property repair invoices of medical expenses. All of this data could demonstrate how the defendant breached their legal duty of care to the plaintiff and caused the accident.
The Georgia Rules of Evidence dictate how a claimant needs to use this information when submitting their lawsuit. Following these specific and complicated rules is essential to any successful personal injury claim. Failure to present evidence in the proper manner could result in a rejected case. However, a detail-oriented lawyer in Marietta could help a plaintiff comply with these regulations to bolster the strength of their distracted driving accident suit.
Available Damages in Distracted Driving Cases
After a plaintiff suffers injuries, they are likely able to collect financial compensation to help them move forward. These monetary damages could help a wounded driver recover from their physical, economic, and emotional setbacks. Common examples of compensation associated with distracted driving claims include payments for:
- Past and future medical expenses
- Rehabilitation costs
- Property damage
- Lost income and salary potential
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of consortium
- Wrongful death
A tenacious attorney in Marietta could help a plaintiff determine which types of damages they deserve after being hit by a distracted motorist.
Contact an Attorney About Distracted Driving Car Accidents in Marietta
Since distracted driving car accidents in Marietta can be incredibly dangerous, every case deserves the careful consideration of an experienced attorney. If you were hit by a negligent driver who engaged in attention diverting behavior, a dedicated legal representative could investigate the crash and outline the best options for your situation. You might be entitled to financial compensation, so you should call the office today to schedule a consultation.