Legal Help For Victims Of Distracted Driving Accidents
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, distracted driving causes approximately 3,000 traffic fatalities annually. At Cromartie Law in Rome, we understand the devastating impact these accidents can have.
Our team, led by Rick Cromartie, brings nearly six decades of combined legal experience to distracted driving cases. We offer free consultations to discuss your situation and develop a personalized strategy.
For attentive, responsive representation during this challenging time, contact us if you or a loved one have been involved in a distracted driving accident. We’re here to guide you on your road to recovery.
The Dangers Of Texting And Driving
Distracted driving occurs when a driver engages in any activity that diverts their attention from operating a vehicle safely. While there are many forms of distraction, texting while driving is particularly dangerous and prevalent.
Texting and driving is especially hazardous because it combines all three types of distraction:
- Visual: Taking your eyes off the road
- Manual: Removing your hands from the wheel
- Cognitive: Shifting your mind away from driving
For instance, when you send or read a text message while driving, your eyes are off the road for an average of five seconds. At 45 mph, that’s equivalent to driving slightly more than the length of a football field with your eyes closed.
Drivers who text while driving must understand that this behavior constitutes negligence under personal injury law. If an accident occurs, the consequences can be severe, both legally and financially.
Texting Is Not The Only Distraction
Even if drivers follow the hands-free law, they can still become distracted. Here are some other activities shown to distract drivers from paying attention to the road:
- Eating and drinking
- Using a music player, whether on the radio or phone
- Adjusting hair or makeup
- Talking or texting, even with a hands-free device
- Interacting with passengers
- Driving while tired
- Anything that takes your eyes off the road
Unfortunately, the hands-free law does not cover most of these, and drivers will still cause accidents.
Understanding The Hands-Free Law
In 2018, Georgia passed the Hands-Free Georgia Act to combat distracted driving. This law requires drivers to use hands-free technology for cell phones and other electronic devices while driving. It also prohibits watching or recording videos while behind the wheel.
The law allows some exceptions, including using GPS devices or apps for navigation, smartwatches and hands-free technology like Bluetooth.
While this law aims to reduce auto accidents, it’s important to note that it may not completely eliminate distracted driving. Drivers must remain vigilant and prioritize road safety.
Facing Serious Injuries? Here’s Your Roadmap To Recovery.
We know how overwhelming a severe injury from a distracted driving accident can be. To protect your health and legal rights, follow these crucial steps:
- Seek immediate medical attention, even for minor injuries
- Take photos of the accident and collect witness contact information
- File police and insurance reports
- Keep all medical records and receipts
- Avoid discussing the accident on social media
- Consult an experienced distracted driving accident attorney
You must take these steps to protect your health and legal rights.
Let Us Fight While You Heal
Your recovery is our top priority. While you focus on healing, our distracted driving lawyers will handle the legal complexities. Our experienced team will fight tirelessly to secure the compensation you deserve.
If you have been the victim of a distracted driver, call our Rome office today at 706-622-4853 or email us for a free case review.