Edwardsville Distracted Driving Accident Lawyer

Edwardsville Distracted Driving Accident Attorney

Distracted driving remains one of the most dangerous behaviors on the road, often leading to devastating collisions that result in serious injuries and emotional trauma. If you or a loved one has been injured in a collision caused by a distracted driver, an Edwardsville distracted driving accident lawyer can seek fair compensation on your behalf.

As an experienced Edwardsville personal injury lawyer, Joshua R. Evans, Attorney at Law, is committed to advocating for victims of distracted driving accidents. By providing compassionate support and aggressive representation, the firm works to hold negligent drivers accountable and make sure victims receive the compensation they need to rebuild their lives.

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

Choosing the right attorney after a distracted driving accident can be critical to the outcome of your case. Joshua R. Evans, Attorney at Law, has a proven record of advocating for victims and holding negligent drivers accountable. Our firm understands the challenges you face and works diligently to pursue fair compensation for your injuries, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

We take a personalized approach to every case, thoroughly investigating its details and building strong claims backed by evidence. Whether negotiating with insurance companies or representing you in court, Joshua R. Evans, Attorney at Law, is dedicated to protecting your rights and interests.

Common Causes of Distracted Driving

Distracted driving occurs when a driver’s attention is diverted from the task of operating their vehicle. This dangerous behavior has become increasingly common, with drivers engaging in activities such as texting, making phone calls, or using social media behind the wheel. Even a few seconds of inattention can lead to catastrophic consequences.

Other common distractions include eating, drinking, adjusting in-car controls, and interacting with passengers. Even mental distractions, like daydreaming or being preoccupied with personal issues, can impair a driver’s ability to respond to changing road conditions. With technology having an ever-larger role in daily life, the temptation to check a phone or respond to a notification often overrides a driver’s focus on the road.

Understanding the cause of the distraction is essential when building a personal injury case. Establishing that the at-fault driver was engaging in distracted behavior can strengthen your claim and help secure the compensation you deserve.

Proving Fault in a Distracted Driving Accident

To recover compensation in a distracted driving incident, you must prove that the other driver’s negligence caused the crash. This process often involves gathering evidence, such as police reports, eyewitness statements, and phone records, to establish that the driver was distracted at the time of the collision. Video footage from traffic cameras or nearby businesses can also have a crucial role in proving fault.

In Illinois, the state’s comparative negligence laws may impact the outcome of your case. Under these laws, fault is assigned as a percentage to each party involved in an accident. If you are determined to be responsible in some way, your compensation may be reduced by your percentage of fault. However, as long as you are less than 50% at fault, you can still recover damages.

For example, if a distracted driver rear-ended your vehicle but you were traveling slightly over the speed limit, the court may assign you 10% of the fault. In this case, your compensation would be reduced by 10%. An Edwardsville distracted driving accident lawyer can navigate these laws, build a strong case, and counter attempts by the opposing party to shift blame onto you.

Why Legal Representation Matters?

After a distracted driving accident, dealing with insurance companies and legal procedures can be overwhelming, especially when recovering from injuries. Insurance adjusters often aim to minimize payouts by disputing liability or downplaying the extent of your damages. Without experienced legal representation, you may be pressured into accepting a settlement that doesn’t fully address your needs.

An personal injury lawyer can be crucial to the outcome of your case. By thoroughly investigating the accident, gathering critical evidence, and consulting accident reconstructionists, your attorney can build a compelling argument that highlights the negligent driver’s actions. This evidence is invaluable when negotiating with insurance companies or presenting your case in court.

Moreover, a skilled attorney can calculate the full extent of your damages, including medical bills, future treatment costs, lost wages, and non-economic damages, such as pain and suffering. That way, any compensation offer from the at-fault party or their insurer can reflect the true impact of the accident on your life.

Edwardsville Distracted Driving Accident FAQs

Q: What Is the Two-Second Rule for Avoiding Distracted Driving?

A: The two-second rule is a simple guideline to help drivers maintain a safe following distance. By making sure your vehicle passes a fixed point on the road at least two seconds after the vehicle is ahead of you, you give yourself more time to react to sudden stops or hazards. This rule promotes attentive driving and reduces the likelihood of rear-end collisions, making it a critical habit for staying focused on the road.

Q: What Are the Three Types of Distracted Driving?

A: Distracted driving is often sorted into three categories: visual, manual, and cognitive. Visual distractions occur when a driver moves their eyes away from the road, such as glancing at a mobile phone or GPS device. Manual distractions involve removing one’s hands from the wheel, like when eating, drinking, or adjusting the radio. Cognitive distractions happen when the driver’s mind is elsewhere, such as when they are daydreaming.

Q: What Are Three Key Statistics About Distracted Driving?

A: Distracted driving remains a leading cause of roadway fatalities. In 2022, it contributed to 3,308 deaths, accounting for 8% of all fatal crashes that year. Over the past decade, more than 32,000 lives have been lost in accidents involving distracted drivers in Edwardsville, IL. Distracted driving can leave a driver financially liable for any damage or bodily injury they cause.

Q: How Many Seconds of Inattention Qualify as Distracted Driving?

A: Distracted driving is often measured by the time a driver’s attention is diverted from the road. Research shows that taking your eyes off the road for just two seconds doubles the risk of an accident. Whether it’s glancing at a text message or reaching for an object, any period of inattention (no matter how brief) can have catastrophic consequences.

Schedule Your Edwardsville Distracted Driving Accident Consultation Today

If you’ve been injured by a distracted driver, talk with Joshua R. Evans, Attorney at Law. Our firm is dedicated to helping you seek fair compensation for your injuries and losses. Let us handle the legal complexities while you focus on healing. Contact our office today to schedule your consultation and protect your rights.