Driver Distraction in Lancaster Car Accidents

Compensation for Distracted Driving Accidents

If you have been injured or have lost a loved one in a car accident that was caused by a driver who was talking or texting behind the wheel, contact us at Accident Attorneys for a free case evaluation to find out whether you have ground to file a personal injury or wrongful death claim.

If it can be proven that the other driver was at fault for causing the accident due to the fact that he or she was willingly engaging in distracting activities while driving, you may be able to recover financial compensation. Our attorneys have more than 75 years of combined legal experience, and we are ready to take action on your claim for damages.

Injured in a distracted driving accident? Contact our experienced attorneys today at (661) 261-4929 for a free consultation and get the compensation you deserve.

Texting While Driving Is Illegal in Lancaster and Palmdale

Under the terms of California Vehicle Code §23123, all drivers are prohibited from using cell phones and other handheld electronic communications devices behind the wheel. Many states across the country ban cell phones only for teenage drivers, but California's ban applies to drivers of any age.

This includes a prohibition against talking, as well as sending or receiving text messages. The ban is a primary enforcement law, which means that a police officer can pull a driver over on the grounds that he or she was talking or texting behind the wheel and without any other reason.

How Common Are Distracted Drivers?

Using a cell phone while driving is obviously dangerous. In fact, AT&T recently conducted a survey that found that 98 percent of commuters believe that texting or sending email behind the wheel is dangerous. In spite of the widespread recognition of its danger, many drivers continue to engage in this behavior.

The same survey found that 49 percent of commuters admit to texting while driving, in addition to 43 percent of teenagers. It is also becoming increasingly common, as evidenced by the fact that 60 percent of commuters reported that they never would have texted behind the wheel as recently as 3 years ago.

Types of Distractions Behind the Wheel

Distractions while driving can be divided into three main categories:

• Visual Distractions: These occur when a driver takes their eyes off the road. A common example is looking at a phone screen, whether for texting, checking notifications, or using apps. Drivers might also be distracted by other objects, such as food or adjusting a GPS, which divert their attention from the road.
• Manual Distractions: This type of distraction happens when the driver uses their hands for tasks unrelated to driving. Examples include texting, dialing a phone number, or adjusting the radio. Taking your hands off the wheel to perform these tasks reduces control over the vehicle and increases the risk of accidents.
• Cognitive Distractions: Cognitive distractions occur when a driver’s mind wanders from the task of driving. For example, daydreaming, engaging in a conversation with a passenger, or thinking about something unrelated to the road can lead to poor decision-making and slower reactions in critical moments.

Consequences of Distracted Driving in Lancaster

Distracted driving significantly raises the likelihood of accidents. In Lancaster and surrounding areas, it is essential to recognize the potential dangers:

• Increased Risk of Accidents: Studies have shown that distracted drivers are more likely to cause crashes. For example, texting while driving increases the risk of a crash by 23 times. The distracted driver’s delayed reactions can lead to severe accidents.
• Severity of Injuries: Distracted driving often results in more serious accidents, such as head-on collisions or rear-end crashes. Drivers who are not paying full attention may fail to notice red lights or stop signs, increasing the chance of high-impact accidents that lead to serious injuries like broken bones, spinal injuries, or brain trauma.
• Fatalities: Distracted driving has been a leading cause of fatal accidents in Lancaster and the greater Antelope Valley. These preventable accidents often result in the loss of lives, leaving families devastated by tragedies that could have been avoided with proper attention on the road.

The Role of Technology in Distracted Driving

Modern technology contributes significantly to driver distractions. While tech devices can enhance convenience, they can also be dangerous:

• Smartphones and GPS Systems: The use of apps, maps, and constant connectivity makes it tempting to check your phone while driving. Whether for navigating unfamiliar areas or checking notifications, these tasks take attention away from the road and increase the likelihood of accidents.
• In-Car Infotainment Systems: Many vehicles now come with built-in infotainment systems that allow drivers to make calls, adjust music, or access GPS. While these features can improve convenience, they are also a source of distraction. In some cases, adjusting these systems while driving takes longer than expected and can cause drivers to lose focus.
• Hands-Free Devices: Hands-free technology, such as Bluetooth and voice assistants, has been introduced to reduce distractions. However, research has shown that even though these devices keep drivers’ hands on the wheel, they can still divert attention away from the road. Cognitive distractions, such as having a conversation, can still reduce a driver’s ability to react quickly in an emergency.

By understanding the different types of distractions and their consequences, drivers can make more informed decisions to stay focused and safe on the road.

HOW CAN DISTRACTED DRIVING ACCIDENT ATTORNEYS NEAR YOU HELP?

When a driver is distracted by their cell phone or other device, the consequences can be catastrophic. If you have been injured in an accident due to a negligent driver who was talking or texting behind the wheel, it’s important to contact experienced motor vehicle accident lawyers near you as soon as possible.

Accident attorneys are knowledgeable about California law and can help individuals recover compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more. It’s critical that those injured by distracted drivers receive legal representation from experienced attorneys who understand how to navigate these complex cases. Car wreck attorneys will fight for your rights so you don't have to face this difficult situation alone.

Experienced accident lawyers in California can help you:

• Investigate the accident thoroughly, gathering evidence of distracted driving
• File a claim with insurance companies on behalf of clients
• Negotiate settlements on behalf of clients with insurance companies or defendants
• Represent clients in court proceedings if necessary
• Ensure that all legal steps are taken to adequately and fairly secure compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages
• Review any potential offers from an insurance company as well as any proposed settlement agreements to ensure they cover all related expenses
• Provide guidance and support throughout the entire legal process.

Frequently Asked Questions About Distracted Driving in Lancaster

• How does distracted driving impact accident liability in Lancaster?
  If a driver is found to be distracted at the time of an accident, they can be held liable for the damages caused. Evidence such as phone records, witness testimony, or traffic camera footage can help establish that the driver was distracted. This can strengthen a victim's personal injury claim.

• What should I do if I am injured in an accident caused by a distracted driver?
  If you're injured in an accident caused by a distracted driver, first ensure your safety and seek medical attention. Then, gather evidence such as photos of the scene, witness contact information, and the other driver’s phone records if available. It's also important to contact an experienced personal injury attorney to help with your case.
• Can I use evidence of distracted driving in court if there are no witnesses?
  Yes, even without witnesses, evidence such as phone records, crash reports, and traffic cameras can help prove that the driver was distracted. A skilled attorney can help gather and present this evidence to strengthen your case in court.
• What types of damages can I claim if I’m involved in a distracted driving accident?
  You may be entitled to compensation for a variety of damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and emotional distress. In some cases, punitive damages may also be awarded if the driver’s behavior was especially reckless.

Help from an Experienced Antelope Valley Car Accident Attorney

By hiring an Antelope Valley personal injury lawyer to represent you in legal action, you may be able to not only recover financial compensation for your losses but also bring pressure to bear against the dangerous trend of driver distraction.

Were you involved in a pedestrian accident? Call us now at (661) 261-4929 to discuss your case with our skilled lawyers and protect your rights.