Distracted drivers can cause serious car accidents that can injure victims in a variety of different ways. A personal injury claim for damages may be able to help victims of distracted driving-related accidents with their physical, financial or emotional damages.
Distracted driving information and protections for victims
During 2012 to 2016, nearly 800,000 car accidents in New Jersey involved a distracted driver. Examples of driver distraction include using a cell phone or smartphone while driving; texting while driving; adjusting a radio or CD player while driving; using a navigation system or reading maps while driving; grooming while driving; eating or drinking while driving; excessive conversations while driving; or tending to children or pets while driving. Texting while driving is considered the most dangerous form of distracted driving because it distracts the driver’s vision, attention and focus and removes their hands from the wheel.
Driving requires the driver’s full attention. Without the driver’s full attention, distracted driving-related car accidents can occur. In New Jersey, handheld use of cell phones while driving is prohibited. Distracted drivers who talk or text while driving can receive a fine. In addition, distracted drivers who cause car accidents may be responsible to compensate victims harmed by their negligent actions in a car accident.
Victims of distracted driving accidents should understand that distracted driving is commonly considered negligence. A negligent driver may be held accountable, and be liable for the victim’s damages, through a personal injury claim for damages. A personal injury claim is an important resource for injured victims harmed by a distracted driver that may be able to help them with their medical expenses and other related damages.