In today’s modern world filled with many sources of distraction, distracted driving has become one of the leading causes of preventable auto accidents. While distracted driving can take many forms, the most notable of which include texting or using a cell phone, any type of distraction that takes a motorist’s attention away from the primary task of driving is not only dangerous to others on the road, but also a clear exemplification of negligence.
Victims who are injured in car accidents caused by distracted drivers have the right to pursue financial compensation for their damages, including any medical expenses they incurred as a result of their injuries, lost work wages, and their pain and suffering, among others.
At Casper, Meadows, Schwartz & Cook, our legal team is prepared to fight aggressively on behalf of auto accident victims, guide them through the claim process, and hold the at-fault driver accountable for their losses.
WHY CHOOSE CASPER, MEADOWS, SCHWARTZ & COOK?
Casper, Meadows, Schwartz & Cook has been fighting on behalf of injured victims throughout the Bay Area for more than 35 years. During that time, we have helped numerous victims and families whose lives were changed by the negligence of motorists who chose distractions over the safety of others on the road.
After an auto accident, you can be confident about placing your trust in our team for the following reasons:
- More than $375 Million Recovered for Victims
- Serving Contra Costa County & Bay Area Since 1979
- Proven Record of Success in Auto Accident Cases
- Voted Best Attorneys in Northern California
TYPES OF DISTRACTED DRIVING
There are three general types of distracted driving that cover the various actions that can lead to an accident. These include:
- Visual – Taking your eyes off the road
- Manual – Removing your hands from the wheel
- Cognitive – Detaching your mind from the task of driving
DISTRACTED DRIVING CASES WE HANDLE
With decades of combined experience and a record of success in a wide range of auto accident cases, our Walnut Creek distracted driving attorneys have the tools and resources to effectively handle all types of distracted driving cases, including those involving distraction caused by:
- Text messaging
- Cell phone use
- Talking with passengers
- Drinking or eating
- Self-care and grooming
- Reading, using maps, or using navigation systems
- Adjusting audio controls
- Watching videos
Any form of distracted driving is negligent, as they can divert a driver’s visual, manual, and cognitive attention away from the road. Distraction is entirely avoidable, and when drivers choose distractions over the task of safely operating their vehicle, they fail to uphold their legal obligation of taking reasonable measures to reduce risks of preventable harm. It is for this reason that distracted drivers can be held liable for damages suffered by the victims they hurt.
TEXTING, CELL PHONE USE & CALIFORNIA LAW
Some forms of distracted driving are not only negligent – they are illegal. This is especially true of text messaging and cell phone use, both of which can significantly increase crash risks.
This is why the state of California has passed strict laws that include:
- Texting and handheld use of a cell phone is prohibited for all drivers.
- Handheld and hands-free cell phone use is prohibited for bus drivers.
- Handheld and hands-free cell phone use is prohibited for novice drivers (secondary law).
Just as drivers can be held accountable when they disobey traffic laws to stop at a red light, distracted drivers who violate the law by texting or using a handheld cell phone can also be held accountable for their actions.
DISCUSS YOUR CASE DURING A FREE CASE REVIEW
Our legal team is readily available to help injured victims and their loved ones learn more about their legal rights following an auto accident caused by a driver who was distracted at the time.
We encourage anyone whose been injured in a crash to reach out to our firm as soon as possible, as time can enable our Walnut Creek distracted driving attorneys to conduct full investigations and work diligently to establish fault and liability. In every case we handle, our goal is to help victims secure the full amount of compensation they deserve.
To get started with a free consultation, contact a Walnut Creek distracted driving attorney from Casper, Meadows, Schwartz & Cook today.