Distracted driving is one of the main reasons for car accidents in Connecticut, causing serious injuries and sometimes even fatalities. In one year alone, more than 3,300 people died in collisions that involved distracted drivers in the United States. This equals around 9% of total fatal accidents.
Not only do we see a significant number of people lose their lives in accidents caused by distractions, but more than 5,000 people in Connecticut alone are forced to deal with painful injuries due to these accidents each year. After an accident, seeking help from a Connecticut car accident lawyer can help to ensure you know your rights and legal options.
At Jonathan Perkins Injury Lawyers, we focus on helping victims of distracted driving accidents in Connecticut. Our dedicated team of lawyers understands Connecticut’s distracted driving laws and is here to support you in seeking compensation for your losses.
We operate on a no-win, no-fee basis, so you won’t have to worry about upfront costs. Call us today for a free consultation with a Connecticut distracted driving car accident lawyer.
The Rise of Distracted Driving Accidents
Distracted driving has been on the rise with the increase in smartphones and in-vehicle technologies. It only takes a second of inattention to cause a collision that can change lives. Here are some of the common reasons behind distracted driving in Connecticut:
For a free legal consultation with a distracted driving accident lawyer serving Connecticut, call 203-437-6190
Mobile Device Use
Using a mobile device while driving is a major cause of distraction. Whether it’s texting, checking directions, or browsing, taking your eyes off the road, even for a moment, can lead to devastating accidents.
Eating and Drinking
Eating and drinking while driving requires the use of at least one hand, making it harder to react quickly in unexpected situations. This habit can easily lead to rear-end or lane-changing accidents.
Click to contact our Connecticut Car Accident Lawyers today
Vehicle Technology
Modern cars come equipped with GPS, touchscreen displays, and entertainment systems that can distract drivers. Adjusting these features while driving can take attention away from the road, increasing the chances of an accident.
Complete a Free Case Evaluation form now
Passengers and Pets
Interacting with passengers or managing pets in the car can be distracting. Talking, turning around, or looking away from the road can have serious consequences.
Connecticut Distracted Driving Laws
Connecticut has strict laws to discourage distracted driving. It’s important to know these rules to avoid penalties and to understand your rights if you’ve been in an accident caused by a distracted driver. Here’s a quick look at these laws:
Cell Phone Use and Texting
It’s illegal to use handheld mobile devices while driving in Connecticut. This includes making calls, texting, or browsing the internet. Violating these laws can result in fines and points on your driver’s license.
New Driver Restrictions
Drivers under the age of 18 are prohibited from using any mobile device, even hands-free, while driving except in emergencies. This rule aims to protect young drivers and other road users.
Who Pays for Medical Bills After a Distracted Driving Accident?
Since Connecticut is a fault-based state, the driver who caused the accident is typically responsible for covering medical bills, often through their insurance. However, compensation is usually not available until you’ve completed your medical treatment. If you’re facing delays in payment, your own insurance or a Connecticut distracted driving car accident lawyer can help explore other options for covering your immediate expenses.
Steps to Take Right After a Distracted Driving Accident
Knowing what to do after a distracted driving accident can make a difference in your case. Here are some steps to consider:
- Call 911: Ensure everyone’s safety and report the accident. Emergency responders will assist and document the accident.
- Exchange Information: Share your name, contact info, and insurance details with the other driver. If there are witnesses, try to get their contact information too.
- Take Photos and Notes: Document the scene by taking photos of the vehicles, any visible injuries, and the surroundings. This can help support your case later.
Proving Distracted Driving in Your Case
Establishing that the other driver was distracted can be crucial in winning your case. Common ways to demonstrate this include:
Cell Phone Records
A distracted driving car accident attorney in Connecticut can request the driver’s cell phone records to see if they were on a call or texting at the time of the accident.
Police Reports
Police reports often include notes on distractions, such as if the driver admitted to being on their phone or if any distractions were visible in the car.
Witness Statements
Witnesses can provide valuable insight into whether the other driver was paying attention.
Compensation You May Be Entitled To
If you’re a victim of a distracted driving accident, you may be eligible for compensation for several types of damages, including:
- Medical Expenses: Covers hospital visits, surgeries, medications, and ongoing therapy costs.
- Lost Wages: If your injuries prevent you from working, you may receive compensation for lost income.
- Pain and Suffering: Compensation for the physical pain and emotional stress caused by the accident.
Frequently Asked Questions
Being involved in a car crash caused by a distracted driver can leave you with many questions. Our team is here to help answer some of the most common.
How Much Can I Expect for My Distracted Driving Case?
The amount of compensation depends on various factors, like the severity of your injuries, medical bills, and lost work time. The more serious your injuries, the higher the potential compensation.
Do I Need to Report a Minor Distracted Driving Accident?
In Connecticut, you must report any accident resulting in injury or property damage over $1,000. It is often helpful to call the police to create an official report.
How Long Do I Have to File a Claim After an Accident?
Connecticut law allows up to two years from the date of the accident to file a claim. Waiting too long can affect your ability to recover compensation, so you should consult a distracted driving accident attorney near you soon after the accident.
What Are Soft Tissue Injuries?
Soft tissue injuries affect muscles, tendons, or ligaments and can result from an accident’s impact. Whiplash, for example, is a common injury in rear-end collisions and may take weeks or months to heal.
How Jonathan Perkins Injury Lawyers Can Help You
At Jonathan Perkins Injury Lawyers, our Connecticut distracted driving accident lawyers are dedicated to helping victims like you secure the compensation you deserve. We handle every part of your claim, from gathering evidence to negotiating with insurance companies.
Our team is known for its attention to detail and commitment to getting results for our clients. If you’re looking for a top-rated distracted driving accident lawyer in Connecticut, we’re here to help.
Additional Resources for Distracted Driving Victims
Our firm provides a range of resources for distracted driving victims in Connecticut, including guidance on filing claims, handling medical expenses, and understanding Connecticut’s distracted driving laws. Our team is here to answer any questions you may have about your rights and the legal process.
No-Win, No-Fee Promise
We believe everyone deserves quality legal representation, which is why we work on a contingency fee basis. With Jonathan Perkins Injury Lawyers, you won’t pay any fees unless we win your case. This allows you to focus on healing without added financial stress.
Contact Our Connecticut Distracted Driving Car Accident Lawyer
If you or a loved one has been affected by a distracted driving accident, reach out to our team today. We offer a free consultation to discuss your case, explain your rights, and help you understand your options. Contact our team today to schedule your consultation with our Connecticut auto accident lawyer.
At Jonathan Perkins Injury Lawyers, we aim to hold distracted drivers accountable and make Connecticut’s roads safer for everyone. Let us help you with the legal challenges ahead and work toward getting you the compensation you need to move forward. Contact us now—your fight is our fight, and we’ll be with you every step of the way.
