When a driver is not paying attention to the road, their ability to react quickly to changing circumstances or potential hazards is significantly reduced, increasing the likelihood of pedestrian accidents.
Our experienced legal team at Buzzell, Welsh & Hill is dedicated to handling the necessary tasks to secure the compensation you deserve following an accident. With our expertise in assisting injured victims across Georgia, you can trust us to protect your rights and pursue your best interests. To schedule a free consultation with a skilled distracted driver accident attorney, please contact our firm today.
Common distractions and their impact on driving
- Using a smartphone: Texting, making phone calls, or browsing social media on a smartphone while driving takes a driver’s eyes, hands, and attention away from the road. This greatly increases the risk of accidents, as the driver is unable to focus on their surroundings and may fail to notice pedestrians crossing the road or other potential hazards.
- Adjusting the radio or other in-car entertainment: Fiddling with the radio, CD player, or other entertainment devices can cause a driver to take their eyes off the road and hands off the wheel. This momentary lapse in attention can lead to accidents, especially when pedestrians or other obstacles suddenly appear in the driver’s path.
- Using a navigation system: Although GPS devices and navigation apps are designed to help drivers reach their destinations more easily, they can also be a source of distraction. Entering an address, zooming in and out on maps, or checking alternative routes can cause drivers to lose focus on the road and potentially miss important traffic signals or pedestrian crossings.
- Tending to children or pets: Taking care of children or pets in the vehicle can be a major source of distraction for drivers. Soothing a crying baby, breaking up fights between siblings, or trying to restrain a restless pet can divert a driver’s attention from the road, making it difficult for them to react promptly to potential dangers, including pedestrians.
What should you do if in a distracted driver accident?
If you are involved in an accident caused by a distracted driver, there are several steps you should take to ensure your safety, protect your legal rights, and preserve any potential evidence:
- Prioritize safety: Immediately after the accident, check if you or any passengers have been injured. If possible, move your vehicle to a safe location, away from traffic. Turn on your hazard lights and, if necessary, set up warning triangles or flares to alert other drivers to the accident.
- Call for help: Dial emergency services to report the accident and request medical assistance if needed. It’s important to have a police report on file, as it can be a valuable piece of evidence if you decide to file an insurance claim or pursue legal action.
- Exchange information: Collect the contact and insurance details of the distracted driver and any other parties involved in the accident. This includes names, addresses, phone numbers, driver’s license numbers, license plate numbers, and insurance policy numbers. If there are any witnesses, gather their contact information as well.
- Document the scene: Take photos and videos of the accident scene, including the positions of the vehicles, any property damage, and any visible injuries. These can be helpful for insurance claims and legal proceedings. Also, make note of any relevant circumstances, such as weather conditions, road signs, or traffic signals.
- Seek medical attention: Even if you don’t feel injured immediately after the accident, it’s important to see a healthcare professional as soon as possible. Some injuries, such as whiplash or internal bleeding, may not present symptoms right away. A medical evaluation can help document any injuries related to the accident for insurance and legal purposes.
- Notify your insurance company: Report the accident to your insurance provider, and provide them with the necessary information and documentation. Be honest about the details of the accident, but avoid admitting fault or making any statements that could be used against you later.
- Consult an attorney: If you’ve been injured in the accident or experienced significant property damage, it may be beneficial to consult with a personal injury attorney. They can help you understand your legal rights, navigate the insurance claims process, and represent your interests if you choose to pursue a lawsuit against the distracted driver.
Remember that each accident is unique, and it’s essential to use your best judgment in determining the appropriate steps to take based on the specific circumstances of your situation.
Contact Buzzell, Welsh & Hill Today
To minimize the risk of accidents, drivers should avoid engaging in these and other distracting activities while behind the wheel. Additionally, pedestrians can take precautions, such as using crosswalks, waiting for walk signals, and making eye contact with drivers before crossing the road, to increase their safety. Public awareness campaigns and stricter enforcement of laws against distracted driving can also help reduce the number of pedestrian accidents caused by inattentive drivers.
It is also crucial to consult with an experienced Georgia personal injury lawyer who can help navigate the legal process and maximize the chances of obtaining fair compensation. Contact our experienced distracted driver accident attorney at Buzzell, Welsh & Hill today.
