Distracted driving is a pervasive and dangerous problem that leads to countless accidents on our roads each year, many of them right here in Las Vegas. With our bustling city attracting tourists and residents alike, the risk of encountering a distracted driver is unfortunately high. At Jack Bernstein Injury Lawyers, we’ve seen first-hand the devastating impact that these accidents can have, and we’re committed to helping those affected seek the justice and compensation they deserve. If you or a loved one has sustained injuries and other damages due to the negligence of a distracted driver, you will want a team of experts car accident lawyers to help you build a strong case for compensation.
Understanding Distracted Driving
Distracted driving refers to any behavior that diverts a driver’s attention away from the primary task of driving. This can involve any activity that takes your , hands off the wheel (manual distraction), or mind off driving (cognitive distraction). Each form is dangerous and can lead to serious, sometimes fatal accidents.
Aside from the physical harm, victims often suffer emotionally and financially, facing medical bills, loss of income, and reduced quality of life. In the state of Nevada, it is illegal to text, email, or talk on a handheld cell phone while driving. These laws are in place to keep our roads safer, but tragically, not everyone respects them.
Common Types of Distracted Driving
There are 3 general types of distractions that drivers can fall victim to, each potentially as dangerous as the next:
- Visual Distraction (Eyes off the road)
- Manual Distraction (Hands off the wheel)
- Cognitive Distraction (Mind off driving)
Specific Examples Of Distracted Driving:
- Texting or Using a Smartphone: This includes reading or sending messages, browsing the internet, using GPS, and even adjusting music. The danger lies in the fact that it requires visual, manual, and cognitive attention – making it one of the most hazardous distractions.
- Eating and Drinking: A seemingly harmless activity, eating or drinking while driving requires drivers to remove a hand from the wheel and can cause spills or other unexpected situations that require a sudden reaction.
- Interacting with Passengers: Whether engaging in intense conversations, dealing with children, or trying to separate a pet from the driver’s lap, the presence of passengers can significantly distract a driver.
- Grooming: Applying makeup, shaving, or even just checking oneself in the mirror can divert a driver’s attention away from the road.
- External Distractions: These could be anything from scenic views and billboards to watching accidents or events happening on the roadside.
While some distractions may seem minor, they all have the potential to cause severe accidents when they interfere with safe driving practices.
Liability in Distracted Driving Accidents
When it comes to distracted driving accidents, determining liability is often a critical step in securing compensation for your damages. The party responsible for causing the accident due to their negligent behavior is typically the one held liable. This means the driver who was distracted at the time of the accident is usually at fault. However, other entities could share in this liability depending on the circumstances of the accident. For instance, if a commercial driver was distracted because of demands from their employer, the company might also share some responsibility.
At Jack Bernstein Injury Lawyers, we work diligently to establish negligence in distracted driving cases. This often involves collecting evidence, such as cell phone records, surveillance footage, witness testimonies, and police reports. We understand that the burden of proof lies with the plaintiff, which is why we strive to build a compelling case on your behalf.
What To Do After a Distracted Driving Accident
If you’ve been involved in a distracted driving accident, taking the right steps can significantly impact your ability to seek compensation.
- First, prioritize your health and seek immediate medical attention, even if your injuries seem minor.
- Next, call the police to report the accident and ensure that an official accident report is filed.
- If possible, document the accident scene by taking photographs or videos. Collect the names and contact information of any witnesses present.
- Avoid discussing the accident or admitting fault at the scene; instead, make sure to only speak about the incident with your lawyer.
Once you’re safe and your immediate needs are taken care of, contact a reputable lawyer experienced in distracted driving cases. They can guide you on the next steps and help protect your rights.
How Jack Bernstein Injury Lawyers Firm Can Help
At Jack Bernstein Injury Lawyers, we are committed to fighting for the rights of victims in distracted driving cases. Our team works tirelessly to investigate the circumstances of your accident, gather evidence, prove liability, and negotiate with insurance companies.
We understand that distracted driving accidents can have life-altering consequences, and our goal is to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. We help determine the value of your claim, considering all past and future medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and any other damages you’ve incurred.
We offer a personalized and compassionate service, standing by you every step of the way so you can focus on your recovery.
Distracted Driving Accident Claims and Compensation
When it comes to filing a claim after a distracted driving accident, there are several factors that may influence the compensation you may receive. These include the severity of your injuries, the extent of your financial losses, and the impact of the accident on your quality of life.
Damages are typically divided into two categories: economic and non-economic.
- Economic damages compensate for direct financial losses like medical bills and lost wages
- Non-economic damages cover pain, suffering, and emotional distress.
In situations where the accident wasn’t the distracted driver’s fault – say, for instance, their car malfunctioned – different rules might apply. Our experienced lawyers can help navigate these complexities to ensure your rights are protected.
Distracted Driving Case FAQs
Distracted driving encompasses any activity that diverts the driver’s attention from the task of driving. This could include texting, talking on a phone, eating, drinking, using a GPS, or adjusting the radio.
Proving distracted driving can be challenging. It often involves gathering evidence such as witness statements, police reports, and cell phone records. Our legal team has extensive experience in collecting and analyzing this type of evidence to build a strong case.
Yes, passengers injured due to the driver’s distraction can also file a claim against the driver’s insurance policy for their injuries and damages.
You may be entitled to various forms of compensation, including for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, property damage, and potentially more.
Nevada operates under a comparative negligence rule, which means you can still recover damages if you were partially at fault, though your compensation might be reduced by your percentage of fault. It’s essential to speak with our experienced attorneys to understand how this rule might apply to your case.
In Nevada, you typically have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. However, the specifics of your case might alter this timeframe, so it’s crucial to consult with our attorneys as soon as possible.
It’s common for insurance companies to try and minimize payouts by downplaying their insured’s fault. Our legal team has experience countering these tactics and will fight to ensure you get the fair compensation you deserve.
Yes, you can still file a claim if you were involved in a distracted driving accident while visiting Las Vegas. Our firm can help guide you through the process, even if you live out of state.
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Choosing the right car accident attorney is a critical decision that could significantly impact your recovery process and your life. At Jack Bernstein Injury Lawyers, we’re committed to helping those in Las Vegas recover from personal injury incidents and get back to enjoying their lives. Contact us today for a free consultation. We’re ready to fight for you.
Call us at (702) 633-3333 or contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your case.