How to Protect Your Claim After a Distracted Driving Accident
Distracted driving is becoming one of Florida’s fastest-growing traffic risks, and the southeast coast of the state is not immune. Every day, drivers divide their attention between phones, GPS devices, food, and even in-vehicle entertainment systems, putting everyone on the road at risk. Talk to a Port St. Lucie Personal Injury Lawyer if you want to learn more about your rights following a collision.
Understanding Distracted Driving in Florida
Florida law prohibits texting while driving, but many drivers still engage in risky behaviors that compromise road safety. In 2023 alone, thousands of crashes in Florida were linked to distracted driving, and those numbers are climbing. Also, distracted driving is more than just texting, the term refers to any activity that diverts attention from the road.
Accidents can happen in an instant. When a driver takes their eyes off the road for just five seconds at highway speeds, they can cover the length of a football field without realizing it. By paying attention, rear-end collisions, intersection accidents, and serious injuries can be prevented.
Victims of distracted driving crashes often face steep medical bills, lost wages, and ongoing pain and suffering. That’s why protecting your right to compensation is so critical.
Holding Distracted Drivers Accountable
If you’ve been injured in a distracted driving accident, there are key steps you should take to protect your personal injury claim.
- Call law enforcement immediately. A police report is a crucial piece of evidence. The responding officer can document the scene, talk to witnesses, and possibly issue a citation for distracted driving.
- Gather evidence. If you can, take photos of the scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries. Look for signs the other driver may have been distracted, such as a phone in their hand or food containers in the vehicle.
- Seek medical care. Even if you feel okay, get checked out by a doctor. Some injuries take hours or days to fully appear. Medical records will also help establish the link between the accident and your injuries.
- Avoid speaking to adjusters. Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts. They may downplay the severity of your injuries or question liability. Consult with an injury lawyer before giving a recorded statement.
- Work with a lawyer who has experience with distracted driving cases. An attorney can investigate the crash, secure phone records, request video surveillance if available, and build a strong case to pursue full compensation.
The reality is that distracted driving is often preventable, and holding negligent drivers accountable not only helps you recover damages, it also encourages safer roads for everyone in our community. If you or a loved one has been injured in a distracted driving accident, know that a Port St. Lucie Personal Injury Lawyer has the skills necessary to protect your rights and help you secure the compensation you deserve.
Are you ready to hold a distracted driver in Port St. Lucie, Fort Pierce, Stuart, or Vero Beach accountable? Meet with the attorneys at Leifer & Ramirez. Call 561-660-9421 to schedule a confidential consultation.
