There are so many distractions for drivers in Sandy Springs. If someone gives into a distraction (like texting and driving), it can cause an accident within moments. That accident can injure or kill the driver and others on the road.
If you or a loved one were injured because of a distracted driver, you have rights. You might be entitled to compensation for your medical costs and more. A Sandy Springs distracted driving accident lawyer can help fight for what you deserve.
At John Foy & Associates, we know how to hold the other driver liable. Our lawyers will look at your case and your recovery options. We also don’t receive a payment if we don’t win you money.
To get a free, no-risk consultation, call (404) 400-4000 or contact us online.
Types of Distracted Driving
Distracted driving means doing anything that takes your attention away from driving. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about eight people in the U.S. die each day in distracted driving-related accidents. Some experts believe the numbers are much higher.
There are three categories of distracted driving:
- Manual distractions that remove your hands from the wheel
- Visual distractions that pull your eyes from the road
- Mental distractions that take your mind off the road
Even one type of distracted driving is dangerous. However, many forms combine more than one kind. Texting and driving involve all three types of distracted driving.
Distracted Driving Activities
Our modern world contains many distractions. Drivers should be careful to avoid these distractions and avoid accidents.
Common examples of distracted driving include:
- Texting while driving
- Watching a video
- Talking to passengers
- Eating or drinking
- Changing the radio or a music app
- Putting on makeup or grooming
Even daydreaming can lead to distracted driving. Getting lost in your own thoughts means your mind is not alert to the task of driving.
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What You Can Recover After a Distracted Driving Accident
In Georgia, the at-fault driver is responsible for the accident they cause. The driver and their insurance are liable for any damages. If you were injured in the accident, you can seek compensation for:
- Medical treatment
- Prescription medications
- Future medical costs
- Vehicle repairs or replacement
- Lost wages
- Loss of earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
In some cases, you can also claim punitive damages. These damages are available when a driver has been incredibly reckless or wanton. Your lawyer can determine if you are entitled to these damages.
If you lost a loved one in a distracted driving accident, you might also have a wrongful death claim. Some family members can recover damages on behalf of a killed loved one.
Proving a Driver Was Distracted
It can be challenging to prove distracted driving. Unlike drunk driving, there is no breath or urine test for distraction. However, you can gather evidence to help show the driver’s carelessness.
An experienced lawyer will know where to gather evidence. For example, they might pull phone records or GPS data for the driver. A lawyer will also talk to witnesses who might have seen the driver was distracted. Accident reconstruction experts can also help show what happened right before the collision.
If you believe the driver who caused your accident was distracted, call John Foy & Associates today. We can look at your case and compensation options during a free consultation. To get started today, call (404) 400-4000 or contact us online.
What to Do After Being Injured in a Distracted Driving Accident
After the accident, there are ways to preserve evidence. First of all, always call the police if there are injuries, deaths, or property damage. Make sure officers create an accident report so that you can get a copy.
After calling the police, document the scene by:
- Taking pictures of your injuries and vehicle damage
- Photographing the entire accident scene
- Getting the names and contact information of witnesses
- Exchanging contact and insurance information with the other driver
Tell the police if you noticed that the driver was distracted. Officers might make a note of this in their report, which can help your case.
Also, see a doctor as soon as possible. Even if you feel okay, it’s important to have a record of treatment. If you don’t see a doctor, the insurance company will try to use it against you.
Also, consult with a distracted driving accident lawyer in Sandy Springs. A lawyer will look at the evidence you have and discuss your rights. You can get an idea of what you deserve from the other driver.
Fighting for a Fair Insurance Settlement
Insurance companies are always looking for ways to pay less on claims. The driver’s insurance might blame you for the accident or question your injuries. But if you have a lawyer, you won’t have to worry about defending your case.
Your lawyer will communicate and negotiate with insurance for you. Plus, insurers are more likely to offer a fair settlement if they see you have legal representation. An attorney levels the playing field so that you have a fair shot from the beginning.
Deadline for a Distracted Driving Claim
The deadline to file a claim in Georgia is usually two years from the accident. If you wait too long, you could miss any chance of recovering for your injuries. So, talk to a lawyer today about what you need to do.
Talk to a Sandy Springs Distracted Driving Accident Lawyer
A distracted driver can change your life within minutes. But you shouldn’t have to pay for someone else’s mistakes. You might be entitled to full compensation for your accident damages.
John Foy & Associates has been helping accident victims for over 20 years. We work only with accident victims and never work for insurance companies. While you focus on healing and being with family, we’ll handle the legal side of things.
Contact us today for a free, no-risk consultation. You won’t pay a thing unless we win you a settlement or award in court.
Call (404) 400-4000 or contact us online to get started for free.
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