Being alert and paying attention while driving is essential to staying safe on the road, but distracted driving is a growing problem that injures thousands of people each year. At Gold, Albanese & Barletti, LLC, our car accident attorneys have handled all different types of distracted driving cases. We can help you get the compensation you deserve if you’ve been injured or have lost a loved one due to someone else’s negligence.
What Is Distracted Driving?
According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), there are three types of distraction when driving: visual (taking your eyes off the road), manual (taking your hands off the wheel), and cognitive (taking your mind off driving). Some common scenarios that can lead to distracted driving include:
- Conversations with passengers
- Dealing with children and pets
- Eating
- Texting, talking or using a smartphone or other electronic device
- Reaching for something on the floor
- Grooming
- Tiredness
- Fiddling with the stereo, controls or GPS
New Jersey law prohibits the use of cell phones when driving unless it’s a hands-free device, but even using a hands-free device can lead to distraction. Texting is prohibited under the statute and includes using social media platforms or a browser on your smartphone as well.
How Can A Car Accident Attorney Help?
When you have been injured in a motor vehicle accident, you may think that there is no way to prove that the other driver was at fault. However, police reports, eyewitness accounts and cell phone records can often reveal evidence indicating that a driver was distracted or careless. Our experienced legal team will do a thorough investigation to uncover any evidence that may support the facts of your case, fight hard to protect your rights and help you get the compensation you deserve. If you were involved in a crash with someone who was using a smartphone while driving, you may be able to pursue punitive damages in addition to compensation for your medical bills, lost wages and pain and suffering.