Distracted Driving Accident Lawyers in Ventura County
Gilbert & Bourke, LLP in Palm Springs, CA, Fight for You
Distracted driving is a major threat to the safety of our roads and highways, and it is a leading cause of accidents, injuries, and fatalities. When an accident is caused by distracted driving, the driver who was responsible for the distraction is liable for any resulting damages, including personal injury and property damage. If you or a loved one has been injured in a distracted driving accident, turn to the experienced attorneys at Gilbert & Bourke, LLP, for help.
Call (760) 800-6038 or contact us online today.
What Is Considered "Distracted Driving"?
When we think of "distracted driving," we often think of talking on a cell phone or texting while behind the wheel. However, distracted driving is much more than just talking and texting on the phone. Distracted driving can include anything that takes a driver's attention away from the road and the task of driving. This can include:
- Eating and drinking
- Putting on makeup
- Reading a book or newspaper
- Using a GPS
- Talking to passengers
- Managing a child or pet in the backseat
- Driving while fatigued
- Responding to a text or email
These activities are dangerous when they are done while driving. Drivers who engage in these activities while driving are putting themselves and others on the road at risk.
What Are the Effects of Distracted Driving?
In the United States, more than 3,000 people die in distracted driving-related accidents every year (1). Many more are injured as a result of distracted driving. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) estimates that 9 people lose their lives and 1,000 people are injured daily due to distracted driving (2). The effects of distracted driving are not limited to those who are involved in an accident. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety estimates that a motorist who is driving while distracted is four times more likely to be involved in a crash (3).
What If I Was Partially at Fault?
If you were partially at fault for the accident, you may still be eligible to recover compensation. In most cases, you will be eligible to recover damages from a distracted driver if you were less than 50% at fault for the accident. Our attorneys can help you determine whether you can recover damages from a distracted driver and, if so, how much you will be able to recover.
What Compensation Can I Recover From a Distracted Driving Accident?
When you are involved in a distracted driving accident, you may suffer significant injuries and losses. These injuries and losses can be devastating and can require a significant amount of time and money to recover from. When an accident is caused by a distracted driver, the driver who was responsible for the distraction is liable for all of your losses. You may be able to recover compensation for:
- Medical expenses, including emergency room visits, surgeries, prescriptions, and rehabilitative care
- Lost wages, including missed work and reduced earning potential
- Physical and emotional pain and suffering
- Reduced quality of life
- Punitive damages
It is important to seek legal help from a distracted driving accident attorney as soon as possible. You only have two years from the date of the accident to file a claim for personal injury damages. If you were injured in a distracted driving accident, turn to the experienced attorneys at Gilbert & Bourke, LLP, for help. Our team can fight for you and your rights and help you recover the compensation you deserve.
Call (760) 800-6038 or submit a case evaluation form today.