Distracted Driving Accident Lawyer In Norfolk
A distracted driver can cause serious harm in just a few seconds. In Norfolk, Virginia and the surrounding areas, distracted driving remains a leading cause of motor vehicle collisions, leaving victims with severe injuries and financial burdens.
At [nap_names id=”FIRM-NAME-1″], our Norfolk injury attorneys help those harmed in distracted driving accidents pursue the compensation needed to cover medical care, lost income and other damages. We work to hold negligent drivers accountable while protecting the rights of injured individuals and their families.
What Is Distracted Driving?
Distracted driving occurs when a driver’s attention is diverted from the road. This can include visual, manual or cognitive distractions, all of which impair reaction time and decision-making abilities. Even a momentary lapse in focus can lead to a collision with life-changing consequences.
Causes Of Distracted Driving Accidents In Norfolk
Many factors contribute to distracted driving accidents. Some of the most common causes include:
- Texting or using a cellphone
- Eating or drinking
- Adjusting in-car controls
- Talking to passengers
- Reaching for objects
Proving that a driver was distracted at the time of an accident can be challenging, but an attorney can help gather strong evidence to demonstrate negligence and seek compensation for the harm caused.
Injuries And Damages
A distracted driving accident can result in serious injuries, some of which require long-term treatment and rehabilitation. Common injuries include:
- Whiplash
- Broken bones
- Head trauma
- Spinal cord injuries
Victims may also experience emotional distress, lost wages and property damage, making financial recovery an essential step after an accident.
Proving Liability In A Distracted Driving Accident
Holding a distracted driver legally accountable requires demonstrating negligence. This is best achieved by gathering evidence, which may include:
- Phone records
- Witness statements
- Traffic and dashcam footage
- Accident reconstruction
A lawyer can help you collect powerful evidence, build a compelling case and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Frequently Asked Questions About Distracted Driving Accidents
Distracted driving accidents are a consistent problem, and they can leave injury victims frustrated and confused about their next steps. Here are answers to some critical questions:
If I am the victim of a distracted driver, what do I do?
If you are in a distracted driving accident, it is important to take immediate steps to protect your rights. First, call for emergency assistance. The police will arrive to document the collision and facilitate the exchange of information with the other driver. While not definitive, a police report can help demonstrate liability during a car accident claim.
Get medical care as soon as possible. Even if you do not believe you were seriously hurt, you could have hidden injuries that could surface within the next few hours or days once delayed symptoms develop or your adrenaline drops. Medical care can protect your health and connect your injuries to the accident, which may eventually be important to any personal injury claim you make later.
As soon as possible, you should reach out to an experienced car accident attorney. At [nap_names id=”FIRM-NAME-1″], our attorneys will gather the evidence in support of your claim, intercede with the insurance companies involved, negotiate on your behalf and – when necessary – litigate to secure the compensation you deserve.
If the distracted driver was on the job at the time of the wreck, can I sue their employer?
Generally speaking, employers are vicariously liable for their employees’ negligence whenever the employee was acting within the scope of their employment. This is true even when the distraction that caused the driver to divert their attention from the road was personal, like a private phone call or text message.
How do insurance companies determine fault in a distracted driving accident?
All the available evidence in a case will generally be factored into the decision. This can include police reports, witness statements, traffic cameras, dash cams and phone records to determine whether a driver was distracted before an accident. In some cases, accident reconstructionists may be involved.
In Virginia, determinations of fault are especially critical. Because the state uses a strict contributory negligence law, you are barred from recovering any damages if you are even 1% at fault for your injuries and losses.
Contact A Norfolk Distracted Driving Accident Lawyer
At [nap_names id=”FIRM-NAME-1″], our attorneys represent individuals in Norfolk and the surrounding areas, working to hold negligent drivers accountable. Call [nap_phone id=”LOCAL-CT-NUMBER-2″] or contact us online today to schedule a free consultation and discuss your legal options.