Cell Phone Related Car Accidents
Car accidents are on the rise in California due to heavy traffic flow and distracted driving. According to the California Office Of Traffic Safety, 80 percent of all car accidents involve some driver inattention. Below is an overview of California personal injury law and how it can help you if you have been hurt in an accident due to distracted driving.
The Effects Of Distracted Driving
According to the Center For Disease Control or CDC, there are three different types of distracted driving:
- Cognitive Or Not Focusing On Driving
- Visual Or Not Watching The Road
- Manual Or Removing Your Hands Off The Wheel
Accidents while using cell phones are more common in people 20 years old and under. Drivers traveling at 55 mph can drive the length of a football field in the amount of time it takes to look at their cell phone.
Time Limits
The law sets a specific amount of time in which a personal injury claim can be filed after a car accident. In California, people who are injured must file a lawsuit within two years after the accident date. Failure to do so may result in the case being thrown out of court.
Expenses
If you are hurt in an accident due to someone talking or texting on their cell phone, you may be able to recover certain expenses. Some things you may be able to obtain a settlement for are:
- Ambulance Transport Fees
- Emergency Room Bills
- Doctor Visits
- Transportation Costs
- Lost Income
What A Lawyer Can Do
Personal injury law is complex and is best handled by an experienced lawyer. A few things a lawyer can do for you during this process includes:
- Gather Evidence
- Talk To Experts
- Negotiate With Insurance Companies
- Obtain Police Reports
- File Court Documents
- Represent You At Trial
If you have been hurt in a car accident caused by a distracted driver, contact a personal injury lawyer for advice. During a consultation, a lawyer can go over your case and let you know how if he can help you recover compensation for your injuries.
