Distracted driving can be as dangerous as drunk driving in Alpharetta. Every day, drivers must avoid using cell phones and other distractions while driving. If a distracted driver has caused your accident, they are liable for the damages. Talk to an Alpharetta distracted driving accident lawyer for help.
At John Foy & Associates, we can help you seek compensation for your damages. With over 20 years of experience, we know what it takes to win cases. Plus, we do not charge a fee unless we win your case.
To schedule a FREE consultation with us today, call (404) 400-4000, or contact us online.
The Definition of Distracted Driving in Alpharetta
According to the National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration (NHTSA), distracted driving is any activity that removes your attention from driving. Examples of distracted driving include:
- Texting while driving
- Talking on the phone
- Eating or drinking
- Talking to car passengers
- Messing with the radio
- Watching videos
- Putting on makeup
Anything that affects your focus on driving is a problem — and texting while driving is one of the worst distracted driving issues. Drivers should put their cell phones away and pay attention to the road while operating a vehicle.
Types of Distracted Driving
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) divides distracted driving into three types:
- Visual distractions that remove your eyes from the road
- Manual distractions that take your hands off of the wheel
- Cognitive distractions that divert your mind from driving
Any type of distraction is incredibly hazardous. Texting while driving combines all three types of distraction.
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Your Compensation Rights After a Distracted Driving Accident
If a distracted driver caused your accident, you have rights. You are probably entitled to financial recovery for your damages. In a personal injury accident, your “damages” are the costs you have because of your injuries.
You can seek compensation for damages like:
- Medical bills
- Prescription medications
- Lost wages
- Loss of earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
If a loved one died in a distracted driving accident, you might have a wrongful death case. You file a claim on behalf of your loved one. Contact an Alpharetta distracted driving lawyer to discuss the details.
Sometimes, an injury victim is eligible for punitive damages. The courts award punitive damages with one primary purpose: to punish the wrongdoer. These damages are available when there is malicious or intentional harm.
You can seek compensation through a personal injury claim. If the at-fault driver has insurance, you can file a claim with their auto insurance company.
Do Not Trust the Other Driver’s Insurance Company
After your accident, remember that the insurance company is not on your side. The other driver’s insurer cares most about saving costs. They will look for ways to reduce how much they have to pay you.
Common insurance company tactics include:
- Calling you and using something you say against you
- Offering you an upfront, lowball settlement
- Downplaying your injuries and damages
- Asking you to give a recorded statement
- Making you feel like you cannot get a better offer
Do not accept a settlement offer without speaking to a lawyer. The first offer will almost certainly be a lowball that doesn’t cover your full costs. A lawyer can determine how a fair settlement should look for you.
Your distracted driving accident lawyer can also handle the insurer for you. They can communicate and negotiate on your behalf. That way, the insurance company will not be able to take advantage of you.
Contact an Alpharetta distracted driving accident lawyer today to learn more. To get a FREE, no-risk consultation with John Foy & Associates, call (404) 400-4000, or contact us online.
How to Prove that the Other Driver Was Distracted
To have a successful claim, you’ll need to show that the other driver was distracted. You’ll also need to prove that their distraction led to your accident. Thankfully, there are ways you can gather evidence for your case.
After the accident, here are some things you can do to show fault and build your claim.
Report the Accident
Call 911 to report the accident to the police. When an officer arrives, let them know that the other driver was distracted. If you saw the driver texting while driving, for example, let the police know.
What you tell the police could end up in the police report, which is beneficial for your case. Also, ask about how you can get a copy of the police report. You’ll need these records for your claim.
Talk to Witnesses
Did anyone else see your accident happen? If so, talk to them and ask about what they saw. If a witness noticed that the other driver was distracted, too, get the person’s contact information. Your lawyer will reach out to them for a supportive statement.
Take Pictures
If you can, take pictures of:
- Your injuries
- Your vehicle damage
- The entire accident scene
Picture evidence preserves the scene, which is helpful to your case. If your injuries worsen or change with time, snap pictures of the progress.
Contact an Alpharetta Distracted Driving Accident Lawyer
Call an experienced lawyer as soon as possible. Your lawyer can begin building on the evidence you’ve gathered. They’ll work to collect information about the accident and the driver’s negligence.
You Have Two Years to File Your Accident Claim
The statute of limitations for car accidents in Alpharetta is two years. Don’t wait to get started on your case. Contact a lawyer today so that you stay on track.
Talk to an Alpharetta Distracted Driving Accident Lawyer for Free Today
Distracted driving accidents are often severe. If you were the victim of this type of crash, you have legal rights. John Foy & Associates can help you fight for the compensation you deserve.
Working with us is risk-free for all of our clients. We do not charge a fee unless we win you compensation. Plus, the consultation is always FREE.
To get a FREE, no-obligation consultation, call (404) 400-4000, or contact us online.
404-400-4000 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
