Today, distracted drivers are hitting the roads more than ever thanks to the rise in technology and cell phone use. Unfortunately, this spike is also causing a rise in automobile collisions.
If you were hit and injured by a driver who is distracted, you may be able to recover your damages. In your recovery efforts, however, you must prove that the driver was distracted. Here are a few things you should know about distracted driving.
What Qualifies as Distracted Driving?
Car accidents occur when a driver is careless, reckless, or negligent behind the wheel. An obvious distraction is cell phone use, whether it is texting, talking on the phone, or checking social media. Cell phones aren’t the only means of distraction, as one may easily take their eyes off the road when eating, reading, fixing their hair or makeup, talking to passengers, or adjusting the radio.
How To Prove the Other Driver Was Distracted
Proof is essential and required in all cases, and it is just as important when proving the driver who hit you was distracted at the time. Proving a distraction may be difficult in some cases, but here are a few tips to help support your claim.
Evidence
If you are able, start gathering evidence at the scene of the wreck. Take some pictures of the scene, where the vehicles are situated, tires marks, or other notable scenes from the collision. Also, try to notice whether the other driver was eating or attempting to put on makeup before the wreck.
Witnesses
Eye witnesses to a collision are incredibly beneficial in determining what happened during a car wreck. Take note of the individuals at the scene who may have witnessed the event, and ask for their names and phone numbers.
If businesses are located near the scene, check with them to see if they have surveillance footage covering the roadway. Those businesses may also have employees that witnessed the collision.
Whether it is texting and driving or looking down to grab a sandwich, distracted driving places others in serious danger. If you need help after being injured by a distracted driver, please contact LEIP Law.
