Motorists who do not pay attention when driving pose a huge risk not just to themselves, but to other people on the road. In fact, distracted driving is one of the leading causes of traffic accidents in the state of Florida. Whether the party responsible for the accident was on the phone or they were distracted by something else, the law allows you to protect your rights by seeking compensation. Proving liability for distracted driving, however, tends to be tricky and it’s therefore advisable to seek legal representation.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident caused by a distracted driver in Palm Beach Gardens, a distracted driving lawyer in Palm Beach Gardens at Steinberg Law is ready to help you seek justice and the compensation you deserve. We will make a solid case demonstrating the other party’s negligence and liability for your losses and injuries.
Call us today at 877-783-4611 to begin the process.
What is Distracted Driving?
In the state of Florida, distracted driving refers to any activity that robs the attention of the driver from the wheel. It is a concerning safety hazard that can be avoided by always keeping your eyes on the road, other cars, pedestrians, and the controls of your car. In Florida, it is a legal requirement to avoid distractions while on the road.
What are the Different Types of Distracted Driving?
There are types of distracted driving- visual, manual, and cognitive, all of which can lead to a huge threat to the safety of motorists and other people on the road. Here is a closer look at the description of each type:
Visual Distractions
These entail distractions that can cause the driver to take their eyes off the road. They include looking for lost items on the vehicle’s floor, checking to see what song is playing on the radio, checking the GPS or navigation system, and looking for mirror controls or temperature.
Manual Distractions
Also, referred to as physical distractions, manual distractions are those that cause the driver to take their hands off the wheel. Examples include checking the phone, adjusting the radio, eating or drinking, smoking, and setting a destination on the navigation system. It is important to keep your hands on the wheel at all times as you can easily lose control of the vehicle and crash.
Cognitive Distractions
These are distractions that the driver’s focus and concentration away from the road. Examples include driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, road rage, speaking to other people in the car, stress, fatigue, etc.
What is Considered Distracted Driving in Florida?
In the state of Florida, the following activities are deemed to be distracted driving:
- Texting while on the road
- Watching a video
- Talking to other people while on the wheel
- Reading maps
- Fussing with kids in the backseat
- Looking in the mirror to apply makeup
- Eating and drinking while driving
- Adjusting the music player or radio
- Talking on the phone while on the road
Any of the above activities can distract the driver and prevent them from paying full attention to the road. It is pretty evident that Florida’s law concerning distracted driving is broad and encompasses anything that diverts their attention from driving.
The Types of Damages I Can Get From a Distracted Driving Accident Case
In Florida, distracted driving accident victims can recover three types of damages with the help of our seasoned lawyers. They include:
Economic Damages
These refer to the compensation awarded for monetary losses you incur from a distracted driving accident. Examples include medical expenses, property damage, lost income, and the loss of earning capacity.
Non-Economic Damages
These entail the compensation awarded for the subjective losses incurred. They include reduced quality of life, loss of companionship, pain and suffering, disfigurement, emotional anguish, disability, and losing a loved one.
Punitive Damages
While not common in distracted driving cases, these are awarded in rare situations where the driver was so negligent or reckless that they showed disregard for the safety of others. They are meant to punish the party at fault and act as an example to discourage members of the public from doing similar acts.
How Much Time Do You Have to File a Distracted Driving Accident Claim in Florida?
Florida has a time limit when it comes to distracted driving claims. This limit is known as the statute of limitations and in the state, you have 4 years from the date of the accident to file a claim. Failure to do so strips you of your right to make a legal claim. As such, it is important to initiate the process as early as possible and use a lawyer to learn about the specific deadlines of your case.
Why Do I Need a Palm Beach Gardens Distracted Driving Lawyer?
Distracted driving can lead to accidents that are life-altering. If you have been a victim, it’s not advisable to take on the claim on your own. At Steinberg Law, you can trust that will handle your claim in the best way possible. By hiring us, you can expect us to help you in the following:
- Launching an investigation to determine the cause of the accident
- Analyzing evidence like witness statements, phone records, accident reports, camera footage, etc.
- Work with experts to determine the value of your case
- Handle negotiations with the insurance company to ascertain maximum compensation
- Represent you in court should negotiations fail
Hire a Distracted Driving Accident Attorney Today!
Getting distracted while on the road is not only dangerous and irresponsible, but it poses a major risk to everyone on the road. At Steinberg Law, we are committed to holding the party at fault accountable for the accident and losses incurred.
Whether you have sustained injuries, or incurred property damage due to a distracted driving accident that was not your fault, our lawyers will work diligently to give you the representation you need.
Following the accident, do not hesitate to reach our offices by calling 877-783-4611 for a free initial, no-obligation consultation.
