Despite the various campaigns and awareness programs that have been put in place, distracted driving remains a huge problem on roads across America. When this happens, you will need a Union City Distracted Driving Accident Lawyer.
According to the CDC, more than 1,000 people are injured and 9 people killed each day in accidents where distracted driving is a factor. These are staggering figures, particularly when you consider that these accidents are completely preventable.
Being involved in a car accident is always a stressful and overwhelming experience, but it can be even more complicated when the other driver was negligent.
If you find yourself in this situation, it is important to know that you have options and legal recourse available to you.
The first step is to contact a reputable car accident lawyer in Union City. At the Law Offices of Gilbert Sperling, III, we have the knowledge and expertise to guide you through the process and help you secure the compensation you deserve.
So don’t wait, if you’ve been the victim of a distracted driving accident, reach out to our Union City distracted driving accident lawyer today by calling us at (404) 383-6975.
What is Distracted Driving?
Distracted driving can take many forms, from using a cell phone behind the wheel to eating, drinking, or even just daydreaming. Whatever the cause, it is imperative that drivers remain focused on the task at hand to ensure their safety and the safety of others.
With the number of distractions available today, it is more important than ever to be aware of the dangers of distracted driving and make a conscious effort to avoid becoming a statistic.
According to Georgia State Law, “distracted driving” is defined as “any activity which could reasonably divert the attention of a driver from the safe operation of a vehicle.” In most cases, distracted driving is associated with texting while driving.
However, there are a variety of other activities that can also qualify as distracted driving, including:
- Talking on the phone (handheld or hands-free)
- Eating or drinking
- Adjusting the radio or navigation system
- Talking to passengers
- Smoking
- Grooming
- Daydreaming
- Texting and driving
All of these activities can take a driver’s focus off the road and increase their risk of being involved in an accident.
Types of Distracted Driving
While the definition of distracted driving may be clear, the types of distractions can vary greatly. Here are some of the most common types of distracted driving:
Visual
Distractions that take your eyes off the road, such as looking at store signage or billboards
Manual
Distractions that take your hands off the wheel, such as reaching for something in the back seat
Cognitive
Not being focused on driving, such as driving while feeling fatigued
Georgia Laws Regarding Distracted Driving
The Hands-Free Georgia Act, which was signed into law in 2018, was a much-needed revision to the state’s motor vehicle code. It bans sending and reading text messages while driving and also prohibits the use of wireless devices by drivers 18 years old or younger.
This act treats distracted driving as a broad-based epidemic instead of an ordinary offense involving texting and driving.
The state had previously only implemented limited statutory protections against distracted driving, which was not enough to curb the problem.
The Hands-Free Georgia Act is a step in the right direction to help make our roads safer for everyone.
What Damages Can Victims Get From A Distracted Driving Accident Claim in Georgia?
Distracted driving accidents can have a significant impact on the lives of the victims. The injuries caused by these accidents can be devastating, and the victims may be entitled to certain damages.
The nature and severity of the victim’s injuries will greatly determine the types and amounts of damages that should be awarded. There are three types of damages: economic, non-economic, and punitive.
Economic damages are those that have a clear monetary value, such as medical bills, lost wages, and property damage. Non-economic damages are more difficult to quantify, but they can include pain and suffering, mental anguish, and post-traumatic stress.
Punitive damages are reserved for cases where the defendant’s actions were particularly egregious and are particularly designed to punish the offender.
In order to recover damages in a distracted driving accident claim, you will need to prove that the other driver was at fault.
This can be done by showing that the driver was texting, calling someone on the phone, eating, drinking, grooming, or performing any activity that took their attention away from the road.
If you have been involved in a distracted driving accident in Union City, Georgia, Attorney Gil can help you navigate the claims process and fight for the compensation you deserve.
How Long Do I Have to File a Claim in Georgia?
If you have been injured in a distracted driving accident, make sure that you act quickly. In the state of Georgia, victims have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim. This is known as the statute of limitations.
If you wait too long, you may be barred from recovering any damages. This is why it is so important to seek legal help as soon as possible.
Types of Car Accidents We Handle
Here are just a few types of car accidents we have dealt with:
- Driving Under the Influence Accidents (Drinking & Drugs)
- Head-on Collisions
- Hit & Run Accidents
- Rear-End Accidents
- Reckless Driving
- Rideshare Accidents
- Rollover Accidents
- Speeding Accidents
- Uninsured Motorist
Why Is It Beneficial to Hire a Lawyer?
There are many benefits to hiring a lawyer when you have been injured in a distracted driving accident. The most obvious benefit is to help you navigate the claims process and ensure that your rights are protected.
If you try to handle your claim on your own, the insurance company may take advantage of you and offer you a low settlement. A lawyer will fight for the maximum compensation you are entitled to.
Hiring a lawyer can also help relieve the stress and burden of dealing with the aftermath of an accident. You can focus on your recovery while your lawyer handles the legal aspects of your case.
Get in Touch with a Union City Distracted Driving Accident Lawyer
Being a good and safe driver does not stop at simply knowing how to operate a vehicle. In order to be a responsible driver, it is important to be aware of your surroundings and be fully focused on the task at hand, which is driving.
When a driver takes their attention away from the road, they are not only endangering themselves but also everyone else around them. If you have been in an accident with a distracted driver, you deserve to be compensated for your injuries.
The Law Offices of Gilbert Sperling, III has a team of experienced personal injury lawyers who are ready to fight for you. Contact us today at (404) 383-6975 to schedule your free consultation.
