If you’ve been involved in a distracted driving accident, the Michigan distracted driving accident lawyers at Fieger Law can help protect your rights and pursue compensation for your injuries.
What Is Distracted Driving?
Distracted driving occurs when any activity takes a driver’s attention away from what should be their one and only focus: the road. These distractions are commonly grouped into three types:
- Visual Distractions: Activities that cause the driver to take their eyes off the road, like checking a phone or adjusting the GPS
- Manual Distractions: When the driver’s hands are not on the wheel, such as when eating or using in-car systems
- Cognitive Distractions: Mental distractions like deep conversations or daydreaming that can divert focus from driving
Common Causes of Distracted Driving
The most common causes of distracted driving include:
- Texting
- Talking on the phone
- Adjusting in-car entertainment systems
- Eating
- Talking with passengers
These behaviors significantly reduce the driver’s ability to react to road conditions, putting both the driver and others at risk.
Michigan Law
Because driver inattention is such a serious issue in the state of Michigan, Governor Whitmer signed a bill into law that makes manually using a cell phone or any device illegal on Michigan roads. Additionally, a driver violating these laws doesn’t need to cause a crash to be penalized. Manually using a mobile device is its own offense and officers may stop and ticket drivers for driving distracted.
Penalties for distracted driving include:
- Fines
- Getting points on your driving record
- Increased penalties for repeat violations
Legal Action After a Distracted Driving Accident
If you’ve been involved in a distracted driving accident, contacting a lawyer to take legal action can help you recover compensation for the damages you’ve experienced. Below are some important steps and considerations for your case.
Proving Negligence in a Distracted Driving Case
Establishing that the other driver was negligent is key to a successful claim. To do so, some of the following forms of evidence can be used to prove the driver was driving distracted:
- Phone Records: These can sometimes show whether the driver was texting or using their phone at the time of the accident.
- Witness Testimony: Passengers or bystanders may have seen the driver engaged in distracting behavior.
- Traffic Cameras: Footage may capture the moment of distraction, like using a phone or eating while driving.
- Police Reports: Official reports often document whether distraction was a factor in the accident.
Compensation Available for Victims
Victims of distracted driving accidents may seek compensation for a many damages. These damages may cover both economic and non-economic losses. Those include:
- Medical Expenses: Compensation for hospital visits, surgeries, therapy, and ongoing treatment
- Lost Wages: Covers income lost due to time off work during recovery
- Property Damage: Reimbursement for vehicle repairs or replacement
- Pain and Suffering: Financial compensation for physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident
Steps to Take When Filing a Claim
Following a distracted driving accident, act quickly to protect your rights and build a strong case. Here are the key steps:
- Seek Medical Attention: Call for help, even for minor injuries, to establish a medical record.
- Report the Accident: File a police report as soon as possible to document the incident.
- Collect Evidence: Take photos of the scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries.
- Consult a Lawyer: Speak with an experienced distracted driving attorney to ensure your rights are protected and to help you through the claims process.
Why Choose Our Michigan Distracted Driving Accident Lawyers?
Our Michigan car accident lawyers have years of experience handling distracted driving cases. We know how to gather evidence, negotiate with insurers, and represent you court, if needed. Our knowledge goes a long way toward helping you receive the maximum compensation possible for your injuries. Our client-centered approach means you will have a dedicated lawyer by your side every step of the way, keeping you informed throughout the process.
Understanding the Statute of Limitations for Distracted Driving Claims
In Michigan, there is a strict time limit for filing a personal injury claim after a distracted driving accident. The statute of limitations is typically three years from the date of the accident. However, it’s important to act quickly. Filing a claim early helps preserve evidence and strengthens your case.
Contact Our Michigan Distracted Driving Accident Lawyers Today
If you’ve been injured in a distracted driving accident, contact Fieger Law’s experienced Michigan distracted driving accident lawyers today for a free consultation. We are ready to protect your rights and fight for the compensation you deserve.
