Distracted driving is a growing concern in Atlanta, GA, leading to numerous accidents every year. Whether it’s texting, eating, or adjusting the GPS, any distraction can take a driver’s attention off the road and result in a devastating accident. If you’ve been injured due to a distracted driver’s negligence, understanding your legal rights is crucial. This page will guide you through the key aspects of distracted driving accidents, the laws in Atlanta, GA, and how Cambre & Associates can help you seek the compensation you deserve.
Understanding the Dangers of Distracted Driving
Distracted driving is a significant contributor to traffic accidents, with countless lives affected annually. The problem stems from the fact that even a momentary lapse in attention can have severe consequences. Common distractions include using a cell phone, eating, talking to passengers, and adjusting in-car systems. These actions divert the driver’s focus from the road, increasing the likelihood of a collision.
In Atlanta, the busy roads and frequent traffic congestion further heighten the risks associated with distracted driving. With so many vehicles sharing the road, a distracted driver can easily cause a multi-car pileup or a fatal accident. Understanding the gravity of this issue is the first step toward protecting yourself and others on the road.
Common Causes and Examples of Distracted Driving
Distracted driving comes in various forms, each carrying its own risks. The most common cause is cell phone use, including texting, calling, or using apps while driving. Texting is particularly dangerous as it involves all three types of distractions: visual, manual, and cognitive. Other distractions include eating or drinking behind the wheel, which takes the driver’s hands off the steering wheel and their mind off the task at hand.
Another significant example is the use of GPS or other in-car technologies. While these tools are designed to assist drivers, they can also divert attention away from driving, especially if the driver needs to input information manually. Even passengers can be a source of distraction if the driver engages in a conversation or turns their head to interact. Recognizing these examples can help in identifying and preventing distracted driving behaviors.
Distracted Driving Laws in Atlanta, GA
In Atlanta, GA, the law takes distracted driving very seriously. The Georgia Hands-Free Law, enacted in 2018, prohibits drivers from holding or supporting a phone with any part of their body while driving. This law aims to reduce the number of accidents caused by cell phone use. Violations can result in hefty fines and points added to the driver’s license, making it a costly mistake.
Additionally, Georgia law also addresses other forms of distracted driving. For instance, any activity that impairs a driver’s ability to operate a vehicle safely can be considered negligent. This broad approach allows law enforcement to penalize various forms of distraction, not just those related to cell phones. Understanding these laws is essential for both drivers and those seeking compensation after an accident.
Types of Claims in Distracted Driving Accident Cases
If you’ve been involved in a distracted driving accident in Atlanta, GA, you may be entitled to several types of compensation. These claims can help cover the financial burdens that arise after an accident, including:
- Medical Expenses: Compensation for hospital bills, rehabilitation costs, and ongoing medical care.
- Lost Wages: Reimbursement for income lost due to time off work while recovering from injuries.
- Property Damage: Payment for repairs or replacement of your vehicle and other personal property.
- Pain and Suffering: Compensation for the physical and emotional distress caused by the accident.
- Punitive Damages: In cases of extreme negligence, additional damages may be awarded to punish the distracted driver.
Each case is unique, and the compensation you may be entitled to depends on the specifics of your situation. Consulting with a lawyer can help you determine which claims to pursue and how to maximize your compensation.
How a Lawyer Can Help You After a Distracted Driving Accident
Navigating the legal aftermath of a distracted driving accident can be overwhelming. A skilled lawyer can assist you in several ways, ensuring your rights are protected and that you receive the compensation you deserve. Here’s how a lawyer from Cambre & Associates can help:
- Investigating the Accident: Gathering evidence, such as police reports, witness statements, and video footage, to build a strong case.
- Negotiating with Insurance Companies: Ensuring that you receive a fair settlement, rather than accepting the initial offer from the insurance company.
- Representing You in Court: If a fair settlement cannot be reached, your lawyer will take your case to court and advocate on your behalf.
Having a dedicated legal team on your side can make all the difference in the outcome of your case. They can handle the complexities of the legal process, allowing you to focus on your recovery.
Types of Accident Cases We Handle at Cambre & Associates
At Cambre & Associates, we specialize in a wide range of accident cases, including those caused by distracted driving. Our legal team is equipped to handle various types of accidents to ensure that our clients receive the justice they deserve. Here are some of the cases we manage:
- Bicycle Accident
- Bus Accident
- Car Accident
- Lyft & Uber Accident
- Motorcycle Accident
- Pedestrian Accident
- Public Transport Accident
- Taxi Accident
- Truck Accident
Contact Cambre & Associates for Your Distracted Driving Accident Case
If you or a loved one has been injured in a distracted driving accident in Atlanta, GA, it’s important to take action quickly. Our team of experienced personal injury attorneys at Cambre & Associates is ready to help you navigate the legal process and fight for the compensation you deserve. Contact us today at (770) 502-6116 to schedule a free consultation and discuss your case with an experienced attorney. Your recovery and financial well-being are our top priorities.