Distracted driving occurs when a driver's attention is diverted away from the primary task of safely operating their vehicle, significantly increasing the risk of causing an accident. The most common form today is texting or talking on a cell phone while driving, but distractions also include eating, adjusting the radio, talking to passengers, using GPS devices, or any other activity that takes your eyes off the road, hands off the wheel, or mind off driving. Even a momentary distraction can be deadly - looking at a text for just five seconds at highway speeds is like driving the length of a football field blindfolded.
In personal injury cases, proving that the other driver was distracted can significantly strengthen your claim for compensation. Evidence might include cell phone records showing calls or texts at the time of the accident, witness testimony about seeing the driver on their phone, or accident reconstruction showing the driver never attempted to brake or swerve. Many states have laws specifically prohibiting texting while driving, and violating these laws can make the distracted driver automatically at fault for the accident, making it easier for you to recover damages for your injuries, medical bills, and other losses.
