What to Do When You’re Involved in a Distracted Driving Car Accident
If you glance at the vehicle next to you at a red light, you’re likely to see someone looking at their cell phone. Or maybe you’re driving down the road and look in the rearview mirror to see another driver reaching to pick something up off the floorboard.
Distracted driving is common. And even seconds of lost focus can lead to an accident.
If you’re in a collision caused by a distracted driver, you can attempt to recover damages. But you’ll need to prove that their distraction caused the accident. So, here’s what you should keep in mind if this happens to you.
What is Distracted Driving?
Distracted driving occurs when a driver is careless, reckless, or negligent behind the wheel.
A typical example is cell phone use. Texting while driving is dangerous. It’s also illegal in South Carolina.
But distraction comes in many forms beyond cell phones. For example, eating while driving, talking to passengers, or focusing on the radio can cause accidents when a driver loses focus.
How To Prove the Other Driver Was Distracted
YIf you were involved in a collision where the at-fault driver was distracted, it’s critical to prove it.
And that’s not always easy. You’ll need to gather proof.
Start gathering evidence after the accident, if possible. Take pictures of the scene, including where the vehicles are situated, tire marks, or other notable angles from the collision.
In some situations, you may see the driver using their phone or being distracted by something else right before the incident. So make a note of this activity.
Eyewitnesses are incredibly beneficial in determining what happened during a car wreck.
Remember the individuals at the scene who may have witnessed the event and ask for their names and phone numbers.
If businesses are nearby, check with them to see if they have surveillance footage covering the roadway. Those locations may also have employees that witnessed the collision.
Distracted driving places others in danger, whether texting and driving or looking down to grab a sandwich. If you need help after being injured by a distracted driver, reach out to our team, and we’ll discuss your case and see how we can help.
