Can I Seek Damages if I Was Hurt in a Crash With a Distracted Driver?

 Posted on November 20, 2020 in Car Accidents

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), distracted driving took the lives of nearly 3,000 people in 2018. Anything that takes a driver’s attention away from operating his or her vehicle safely is considered a form of distracted driving. This may include texting or other cell phone use, eating and drinking while driving, adjusting the radio or GPS system, and much more. If you were hurt in a car accident caused by a distracted driver, you may be left with overwhelming financial losses. Fortunately, a personal injury claim may help you recover compensation.

Distracted Driving Is Against the Law
The act of texting and driving has been against the law in Illinois for over a decade. However, this has not stopped people from using their cell phones behind the wheel. Many drivers have admitted to texting, browsing the Internet, updating social media, and even watching videos while operating a vehicle. Recently, a new law went into effect in Illinois that allows the Secretary of State to revoke or suspend an individual’s driver’s license if he or she causes an accident resulting in bodily injury while using an electronic device. Although using a cell phone while driving is still a major concern, this is not the only type of distracted driving that results in serious auto accidents. Talking to passengers, reaching for an object that has fallen on the vehicle’s floor, attending to children in the backseat, and countless other acts may constitute distracted driving. If a motorist violates Illinois traffic laws or drives in a reckless or negligent manner, he or she may be liable for any damages caused in an accident.

Bringing an Injury Claim Against a Distracted Driver
It is estimated that distracted driving results in over 1,000 injuries every day in the United States. If you were seriously hurt in an accident caused by a distracted driver, you may be left with massive hospital bills, ongoing medical costs, and other expenses. Your injuries may have also left you unable to work. Through a personal injury lawsuit, you may be able to recover compensation for your lost wages, reduced future earning capacity, medical expenses, property damage, pain and suffering, and more. However, proving liability for an auto accident is often complex. This is why it is important for you to speak with an experienced car accident lawyer as soon as possible.

Contact a Bloomington Personal Injury Attorney
Traffic accidents can cause immense suffering and considerable financial damage. If you or your loved one was injured in a vehicle collision caused by distracted driving, you may be entitled to damages. Medical bills can quickly add up, especially if you cannot return to work after the accident. To learn more, contact the knowledgeable legal professionals at Kanoski Bresney. Call our office today at 888-826-8682 to schedule a free, confidential consultation with one of our qualified Decatur car accident injury lawyers.

Sources:
https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/politics/stiffer-penalties-go-into-effect-in-illinois-for-distracted-driving
https://www.nhtsa.gov/risky-driving/distracted-driving