According to the Texas Department of Transportation, distracted driving is a huge concern in the state. In 2023, one in six accidents on Texas roads resulted from a distracted driver.
All distractions, from eating and grooming to texting and talking to others in the vehicle, are dangerous. While writing, sending, or reading a text while driving is illegal, many drivers still do it.
If you are involved in an accident caused by distracted driving, you may be entitled to compensation. We encourage you to contact our law firm to discuss your case. We will investigate the incident and work to help you secure the compensation you deserve.
Understanding Distracted Driving
The Burkett Law Firm has seen the significant impact that distractions can have on driving safety. Distracted driving encompasses any activity that diverts attention from driving, and unfortunately, it’s a leading cause of accidents on our roads.
We understand the complexities of these cases and are here to help victims find justice.
- Texting and Driving: Despite widespread awareness campaigns, texting while driving remains the most common form of distracted driving. Sending or reading a text takes your eyes off the road for an average of 5 seconds; at 55 mph, this is enough time to cover the length of a football field.
- Using GPS and Other In-Car Technologies: While technology like GPS is designed to help drivers, interacting with these devices while driving can lead to significant distractions, taking your focus away from the road.
- Eating and Drinking: Life’s fast pace often means eating on the go, but doing so while driving divides your attention and reduces your ability to react to unexpected situations.
- Talking to Passengers: Conversing with passengers can also be a significant distraction, especially when those interactions are intense or emotional.
- External Distractions: Billboards, accidents on the side of the road, or even scenic views can distract a driver from the road ahead.
At The Burkett Law Firm, we emphasize the importance of driving without distractions for your safety and the safety of others on the road. If you’ve been involved in an accident caused by a distracted driver, our dedicated professionals are here to offer the expertise and support you need.
Proving Liability in Distracted Driving Accidents
Our experienced lawyers understand that proving liability in distracted driving accidents is crucial for securing justice for victims. Distracted driving cases hinge on establishing that the driver’s lack of focus was the proximate cause of the accident.
Our approach combines thorough investigation with leveraging technology to gather compelling evidence.
Gathering Evidence
From the moment we take on your case, our team works diligently to collect evidence that proves distraction at the time of the accident. This includes obtaining cell phone records, eyewitness accounts, and surveillance footage that may capture the moments leading up to the crash.
Use of Technology
We utilize the latest technology to reconstruct accidents and show how distractions lead to collisions. By analyzing data from vehicle black boxes, we can often tell if a driver was texting, making calls, or using apps.
Expert Testimony
To improve the likelihood of success for our client’s case, we often employ accident reconstruction experts and other specialists who can provide authoritative insights on how distractions contributed to the accident.
Legal Strategy
With the evidence, our legal team crafts a compelling argument to present in negotiations with insurance companies or in court. We focus on demonstrating not just the act of distraction but also how it breached the duty of care owed by the driver to our client, directly causing their injuries and losses.
At The Burkett Law Firm, we’re committed to holding distracted drivers accountable for their actions.
Types of Compensation You May Recover
At The Burkett Law Firm, our role extends beyond proving liability. We are committed to ensuring that victims of distracted driving accidents are fully compensated for their losses. Understanding the types of compensation you may recover is crucial in highlighting the full scope of how an accident impacts your life.
- Medical Expenses: Victims are entitled to compensation for all medical-related expenses. This includes immediate medical care, surgeries, medication, physical therapy, and any future medical treatments tied to the accident’s injuries.
- Lost Wages and Earning Capacity: Compensation can cover lost wages if your injuries prevent you from working. Furthermore, if your ability to earn in the future is compromised, we will seek damages for the loss of earning capacity.
- Pain and Suffering: Beyond the tangible losses, compensation can be sought for the physical pain and emotional distress suffered due to the accident. These non-economic damages recognize the accident’s significant impact on your quality of life.
- Property Damage: We ensure you are compensated for any damage to your vehicle or personal property caused by the accident.
- Punitive Damages: In cases where the distracted driver’s behavior is especially egregious, punitive damages may be awarded to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar conduct in the future.
At The Burkett Law Firm, we understand the nature of compensation in distracted driving cases. Our approach is to secure a comprehensive settlement that addresses every aspect of your loss and suffering.
Protect Your Rights After Injuries from a Distracted Driving Accident
Unfortunately, drivers are distracted behind the wheel every day. If you are involved in an accident caused by a negligent driver, our law firm can help.
The first step is to contact our office to schedule a risk-free consultation. We will help you secure the full compensation you deserve for your injuries and losses.