Distracted Driving Accident Attorneys in Jefferson City

Distracted driving is nothing new, but technology has made the problem worse in recent years. As car accidents and injuries continue to increase, it is clear that distracted drivers are a dangerous reality for all drivers and pedestrians. Smartphones and navigation systems are very useful, but these tools can prevent drivers from staying focused while on the road. These distractions affect not only the driver but also passengers and others on the road.

Distracted driving accidents can be a frightening and life-altering experience. The momentary lapse in attention to the road can result in a devastating event, leading to severe physical injuries, emotional trauma, and even fatalities. The consequences extend beyond the immediate aftermath, with potential long-term impacts on health, finances, and personal relationships. If you or your loved ones have been affected by a distracted driving incident, seeking immediate legal representation can make sure that your rights are protected and that you get the compensation you need and deserve.

What Qualifies as Distracted Driving?

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has identified three categories of distracted driving:

• Visual Distractions: Activities that make a driver take their eyes off the road;
• Manual Distractions: Activities that make a driver take their hands off the wheel; and
• Cognitive Distractions: Activities that take a driver’s thoughts away from driving. 

Most distractions combine visual, manual, and cognitive distractions. Distracted drivers are much more likely to cause accidents. In fact, the National Safety Council reports that approximately 28% of crashes involve drivers using their phones to text or talk.

As of today, texting and driving is considered a serious offense in many states, including Missouri. In an effort to combat distracted driving, Missouri has implemented the Siddens Bening Hands-Free Law, which prohibits the use of handheld cell phones while driving on any bridge, tunnel, or public roadway in the state. This law underscores that texting while driving is not only a manual and cognitive distraction but also a visual one. It draws a driver’s attention away from the road, making it a dangerous activity that can lead to fatal accidents. Violating this law can result in severe penalties, reinforcing the seriousness of distracted driving and emphasizing the necessity for drivers to maintain full attention on the road at all times.

Distracted Driving Causes Life-Altering Injuries

Distracted drivers cause injuries on the road. These injuries can be life-altering for victims. While insurance may provide victims of distracted driving accidents with coverage for medical bills, insurance might not be enough to cover lost wages, emotional distress, long-term rehabilitation, and other non-economic losses a victim may have.

Contact an Experienced Attorney for Help

Distracted driving can lead to serious injuries and even death. If you were in an accident and you suspect the other driver was distracted, contact the distracted driving accident attorneys at Brydon, Swearengen & England P.C. We can advise you on the best way to seek recovery for your injuries and assist you in fully recovering from your accident. Please contact us to schedule a consultation.