Waldorf Distracted Driving Accident Attorneys

Lawyers for Car Accidents Caused by Distracted Drivers in Waldorf, MD

Of the different reasons why car accidents may take place, distracted driving is one of the most common, and it is also something that should be preventable. Drivers who do not pay close attention to the road and the traffic around them may be unable to avoid collisions, and they may be responsible for causing catastrophic injuries. Car accidents that occur because of distracted driving can leave victims with severe injuries that may affect every aspect of their lives.

At Farmer & Klopfer, our attorneys help people who have been injured by distracted drivers obtain financial compensation for the damages they have suffered. A distracted driver can be held legally responsible for the harm caused in an accident, and we can take steps to show that a person was negligent and was responsible for a victim's injuries.

With decades of legal experience, we know how to investigate these accidents, gather evidence of negligence, and build strong claims on behalf of our clients. Our law firm has a proven record of success in personal injury cases, and we take an aggressive approach to fighting for victims' rights at every stage of the legal process.

What Counts as Distracted Driving?

Distracted driving may include any activities that take a person's attention away from driving safely. Distractions generally fall into three categories:

• Visual Distractions: A driver may take their eyes off the road when looking at their phone or turning to look at a passenger. This may prevent them from noticing changing traffic conditions, leading to delayed reactions that could lead to accidents.
• Manual Distractions: A driver may take one or both hands off the steering wheel while engaging in activities other than driving. Actions like reaching for an object on a vehicle's floor or in the back seat or adjusting controls can affect a driver's ability to steer and maintain control of their vehicle.
• Cognitive Distractions: Anything that shifts a person's mental focus away from driving can be dangerous. Holding conversations with passengers or making phone calls can cause a driver to miss critical details that could help prevent an accident.

Many activities involve multiple categories of distractions. For example, using a handheld phone while driving may lead a driver to look away from the road, use one or both of their hands to operate the device, and take their attention away from driving.

Common Sources of Distraction for Drivers

Smartphones and Other Devices

Texting while driving is one of the most common forms of distracted driving that can lead to car accidents. When sending or reading a text, a driver may take their eyes off the road for several seconds, leading them to travel a significant distance without paying attention to traffic. Phone calls, social media, and navigation apps can also serve as dangerous distractions for drivers.

In-Car Technology

Modern vehicles are equipped with infotainment systems, touchscreens, and voice-activated controls. The use of this technology can take a driver's attention away from the road. Playing music, looking up directions on a navigation system, or viewing information screens can all distract drivers.

Eating and Drinking

Many drivers drink beverages or eat food while behind the wheel. When a person takes a hand off the wheel to hold food or a beverage, or when they look away from the road while eating, the risks of accidents can increase.

Passengers

When parents turn around to deal with children in the back seat, these distractions can increase the risks of accidents. A driver may take their attention away from the road, turn to look at a passenger, or reach into the back seat, and these activities can affect their ability to maintain control.

Investigating Distracted Driving Claims

Proving that an accident was caused by distracted driving may require multiple forms of evidence. Our lawyers know where to look and how to secure the evidence needed to support a strong claim. We can take steps to obtain phone records showing that a person was making a call, sending a text message, or engaging in other activities at the time of a crash.

We can also take statements from witnesses who saw a driver's behavior before or during a collision. Footage from security cameras at nearby businesses or traffic cameras may capture the moments leading up to the crash and show that a driver was using their phone or engaging in other activities. Data from onboard systems may also provide information about a vehicle's speed, braking, and other details that may indicate that a driver was distracted.

Contact Our Waldorf, Maryland Distracted Driving Accident Lawyers

At Farmer & Klopfer, we have decades of experience standing up for injury victims. Our team takes an aggressive approach to these cases, fighting to secure the compensation that our clients need and deserve. We are committed to providing attentive, personalized service for clients throughout the entire legal process. To get effective legal help with your case, contact our Waldorf distracted driving car accident attorneys at 301-843-3890 and schedule a free consultation.