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What to Do After a Distracted Driving Accident

A large number of car accidents are caused by distracted driving, so it is important for drivers to understand how to prevent these dangerous collisions. Many of these incidents can easily be avoided. However, when they do happen, drivers need to know what to do as well.

Victims injured by distracted driving can receive compensation under personal injury law. It is important to understand the law, victims’ rights, and the procedures to follow in a personal injury case.

Types of Distracted Driving

Approximately 3,000 people die every year in crashes involving distracted drivers, and 400,000 motorists are injured. Driving distracted may affect other people as well. Car crashes can be deadly for all involved. In fact, one out of five people killed by distracted drivers are pedestrians or bicyclists.

Distracted driving can be separated into three broad categories:

  • Visual: Any situation where the driver takes their eyes off the road.
  • Cognitive: Driving while not mentally focused on the road.
  • Manual: Not maintaining control by letting go of the steering wheel.

Why Do Distracted Driving Accidents Happen?

Distracted driving accidents happen for various reasons. Some common causes of distracted driving collisions include:

Cellphones: Texting and driving is a big problem. Sending or reading texts, making phone calls, taking pictures, and using social media are all dangerous activities that takes a driver’s eyes off the road and hands off the wheel. To prevent a distracted driving accident, a driver should avoid phone calls and focus on the road. If a person must answer the phone, they should safely pull over.

Eating and Drinking: Fast food offers convenience, but it is safer to park the car instead of trying to eat while traveling down the highway.

Conversations with Passengers: Most people talk to their passengers rather than drive in silence. This is not necessarily bad on its own, but if the conversation takes attention away from the road, it is best to refocus and avoid the distraction.

Should I Always Receive Medical Attention?

The first step to do after an accident is to contact the police and emergency medical responders, even for minor accidents. It is possible to sustain serious injuries that may not be immediately detected. It is best to seek medical attention directly following a car crash.

Why Should I Contact a Lawyer?

Since injuries could develop and increase over time, it is important to document information about the crash for auto insurance and a possible future personal injury claim. If an injury does result from the accident, it is best to contact a lawyer before filing a personal injury claim through insurance. Insurance companies are in business to pay out the minimum, while a lawyer will work to maximize the settlement for the victim.

Delaware Car Accident Lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. Provide Legal Advice to Victims of Distracted Driving

If you were injured as a result of distracted driving, one of our knowledgeable Delaware car accident lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. can help. Our lawyers work with injured parties to help them receive compensation. For a free consultation, call us at 302-656-5445 or contact us online. Located in Wilmington and Millsboro, Delaware, we serve clients throughout Dover, New Castle County, and Sussex County.