Distracted driving can cause serious car accidents and injuries to victims. Because victims can be unexpectedly harmed by a distracted driver, it is important for them to be familiar with the legal resources available to help them.
Distracted driving includes any activity that removes a driver’s attention and focus from the roadway. Distracted driving can include cell phone use; texting; operating a navigation device; eating and drinking; grooming; reading; and carrying on conversations with passengers. The proliferation of these devices has led to more distracted driving, which, in turn, causes more car accidents. Distracted driving is considered negligence and negligent drivers may be liable to the victims they harm.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 3,092 victims were killed in distracted driving-related car accidents in 2010. Additionally, that same year, an estimated 416,000 victims were injured in distracted-driving accidents. In South Carolina, 9,716 car accidents were attributed to distracted driving, according to the South Carolina Department of Public Safety. A total of 21 victims were killed and another 3,723 victims were injured in distracted driving-related accidents in South Carolina in 2009.
According to one analysis by the Governors Highway Safety Association, 15 to 25% of all car accidents are caused by distracted driving. It is important for victims to know that a personal injury claim for damages may be available to help them hold a distracted driver accountable and help them with their physical, financial and emotional damages. An attorney can answer any questions you may have regarding your accident.