Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of car accidents in the United States. Car accidents take place worldwide, and Fort Wayne is no exception. Car accidents can lead to severe injuries, and in the worst cases, they can even cause death.
If you are a road user and get hit by a car, you should know your rights. There are many times when the person gets injured due to the negligence of the driver. For instance, if the driver is constantly on the phone, they may fail to see any dangers that may befall them.
Furthermore, if a person is eating or drinking or is too busy talking to passengers, the likelihood of accidents also increases. A person, while driving, should remain focused on the road for their own safety and that of others.
Distracted driving can be understood as any activity that distracts you from focusing on the road. You will not be safely driving unless you are entirely focused on the road.
Even taking your eyes off the road for five seconds can lead to a fatal accident if the car is running at high speed. You can take legal action and get legal advice if you have an accident.
What are the consequences of distracted driving?
There can be consequences as a result of distracted driving leading to an accident. Legal actions can be taken against the driver. Their license might be suspended, and further penalties might be charged.
Furthermore, if distracted driving leads to an accident, then they will be required to compensate the injured person for the damages and injuries. In addition, if the driver breaks any traffic laws during the course of driving, legal action can be taken against him.
Drivers saving five seconds by replying to a text can end up destroying someone else’s entire life and may even end the life of someone. The injuries sustained in a car accident are usually long-term and can cause severe impairment in a person’s life. Therefore, the eyes should be on the road while driving.
What does the compensation in a car accident involve?
There are various things that are considered in a car accident, depending upon the severity of injuries. Some of those things are listed below:
- Medical expenses until full recovery is made by the victim.
- Compensation for the lost wages, the person might have to remain in the hospital for quite some time and therefore the wages needs to be covered.
- Pain and suffering of the individual.
- Damage to the property (if there are any).
- Medications and prescription expenses are also included.
What defines negligence in a car accident?
There are various factors that are considered when defining negligence in a car accident. The primary factors are listed below:
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Duty of care:
The duty towards other people while being on the road. Keeping their headlights on when driving, taking turns by giving turn signals, not overspeeding, etc, are the duties of the driver when driving.
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Breach of duty:
Not fulfilling the duties towards other people on the road led to the accident. If the driver does not pay attention on the road, does not follow signs, and their irresponsible behavior leads to an accident, then the person can be held liable.
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Cause of the accident:
Determining if distracted driving was the actual cause of the accident. It is essential to determine whether the cause of the accident matches the negligence of the driver.
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Damages sustained:
The damages sustained as a result of the accident will be included in this factor. The damages could be in terms of medical expenses, loss of income source, permanent injuries, etc.
Contact a lawyer to get compensation!
It is essential that the person seeks compensation for the losses and gets some financial relief. It can be challenging to deal with the injuries and spend a lot of money during the recovery period.
