Carlinville Distracted Driving Accident Lawyer

Carlinville Distracted Driving Accident Attorney

Distracted driving accidents can forever change a person’s life in an instant, leaving victims with physical, emotional, and financial burdens. Our Carlinville distracted driving accident lawyer is here to help. We’re not afraid to take on large insurance carriers when serving justice for our clients.

We work to hold distracted drivers accountable and make sure victims get the support they need. Backed by years of experience as a Carlinville personal injury lawyer, we’re committed to helping you recover the compensation you deserve and move forward with confidence.

Joshua R. Evans, Attorney at Law: Your Carlinville Distracted Driving Accident Lawyer

When you’ve been injured in an accident caused by distracted driving, you need a dedicated attorney who prioritizes your recovery and rights. Joshua R. Evans, Attorney at Law, combines a deep understanding of personal injury law with personalized client care. We recognize that every case is unique, so we take the time to understand your specific challenges and goals.

Our firm has a proven record of holding negligent drivers accountable, whether through negotiating with insurance companies or pursuing justice in court. We can handle every aspect of your claim, from gathering evidence to calculating damages, while making sure no detail is overlooked.

Common Causes of Distracted Driving

Distracted driving poses a significant threat on today’s roads, often resulting in severe accidents and injuries. One of the most common causes is smartphone use. Texting, checking emails, or browsing social media diverts drivers’ attention from the road and significantly increases their crash risks.

Eating or drinking while driving is another frequent distraction. Handling food or beverages requires taking hands off the wheel, while spills can further draw attention away from driving. Adjusting vehicle controls, such as navigation systems or air conditioning, also contributes to lapses in focus, particularly when drivers navigate complex menus.

Passengers can inadvertently distract drivers through conversations or requests, especially if young children are involved. Grooming activities, like applying makeup or fixing hair, are surprisingly common while driving and equally hazardous.

Can I Be Compensated If a Distracted Driver Causes My Injury?

If you’ve been injured in a distracted driving accident, several avenues exist for obtaining compensation. Distracted driving constitutes negligence under the law, and demonstrating that the driver’s inattention caused the collision forms the basis of a successful claim. Compensation can be pursued through insurance, direct negotiations, or litigation.

Most claims start with the distracted driver’s insurance company. In Illinois, drivers are required to carry minimum liability insurance, which covers medical expenses, lost wages, and property damage up to policy limits. If the driver’s insurance is sufficient, your claim may be resolved through negotiations. However, insurance adjusters often aim to minimize payouts. Having legal representation can ensure a fair evaluation of your damages.

When the driver is underinsured, you may need to explore additional options. If you carry uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage on your own policy, it can cover the losses their insurance doesn’t. This type of coverage compensates you for injuries and losses that exceed the other driver’s policy limits.

In cases where insurance is inadequate, or the distracted driver refuses to accept liability, filing a personal injury claim can become necessary. A court can award damages for economic losses, such as medical bills and lost income, as well as non-economic damages for pain and suffering. Your attorney could also seek punitive damages if the driver’s behavior was particularly reckless.

Carlinville Distracted Driving Accident FAQs

Q: Is Distracted Driving the Same as Reckless Driving?

A: Distracted driving is not the same as reckless driving. Distracted driving occurs when you are driving while distracted by something, such as an interesting roadside object or conversations with your passengers. Reckless driving involves operating a vehicle without caring about road or highway laws or even the safety of others who are also using the road.

Q: What Are the Four Types of Distracted Driving?

A: The four types of distracted driving are visual, manual, cognitive, and auditory. Visual distractions take your eyes off the road, such as looking at a phone or billboard. Manual distractions involve removing your hands from the wheel, like when eating or grabbing an object. Cognitive distractions occur when your mind isn’t focused on driving, such as being lost in thought. Auditory distractions, like loud music or conversations, divert your attention away from the road.

Q: What Is the Biggest Distraction for Drivers Involved in Collisions?

A: Texting and using smartphones are the leading distractions for drivers involved in collisions in Carlinville, IL. These activities demand visual attention as drivers take their eyes off the road, manual attention as they remove their hands from the wheel, and cognitive focus as their minds shift away from driving. This creates a dangerous combination that dramatically increases the risk of accidents.

Q: What Is the New Law on Distracted Driving?

A: The new law on distracted driving in Illinois prohibits the use of handheld electronic devices while operating a motor vehicle. This includes texting, making calls, or browsing the internet unless using hands-free technology. The goal is to minimize distractions that take a driver’s hands off the wheel, eyes off the road, or mind off driving. Violating this law is considered a moving violation. Repeated offenses can lead to severe consequences.

Q: What Are Some Shocking Facts About Distracted Driving?

A: Distracted driving claims thousands of lives annually. According to the NHTSA, 3,522 people died in 2021 due to distracted driving. Texting while driving increases crash risk by 23 times, and teens are the largest group reported in distraction-related fatal crashes. Texting while driving is particularly hazardous, as it combines visual, manual, and cognitive distractions.

Schedule Your Distracted Driving Consultation Today

If you’ve been injured in an accident caused by a distracted driver, you shouldn’t seek compensation and justice alone. Joshua R. Evans, Attorney at Law, provides personalized legal support while pursuing compensation for your injuries, medical expenses, and other damages.

Our team works diligently to gather evidence, build a strong case, and negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf. We are dedicated to protecting your rights and achieving the justice you deserve. Contact our office today to schedule your consultation.