At the David W. Martin Law Firm, we have witnessed firsthand the devastation caused by distracted driving in South Carolina vehicle accidents. Distracted driving is any activity that pulls a driver’s focus away from the road, and it can include using cell phones, eating, applying makeup, or even driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol. In this article, we will discuss the dangers of distracted driving and what you need to know if you’ve been in a car wreck caused by a distracted driver.
Driver Distraction and Cell Phone Use
Cell phone usage while driving is one of the most common kinds of distracted driving. The National Highway Traffic Safety Agency (NHTSA) reports that texting while driving is six times more likely to result in a car accident than driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Texting while driving is prohibited in South Carolina, and violators face fines and penalties. If you have been injured in South Carolina as a result of a distracted driver, the court can award punitive damages to punish the at-fault party for their negligence.
Distracted Driving and Driving When Intoxicated
Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol is another form of distracted driving that can have catastrophic results. In South Carolina, driving with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08 or higher is prohibited. The penalties for driving under the influence include fines, license suspension, and even imprisonment.
Accidents resulting from distracted driving
Distracted driving automobile collisions can result in major injuries, property damage, and even fatalities. Accidents caused by distracted drivers frequently result in whiplash, shattered bones, head trauma, and spinal cord injury. In the worst of circumstances, these collisions might cause wrongful death.
If you’ve been involved in a car crash caused by a distracted driver in South Carolina, there are numerous steps you should take to safeguard your rights and guarantee you receive the compensation you deserve.
Get Medical Attention: After an automobile accident, the first and most crucial action is to seek medical assistance for any injuries experienced. Even if you do not initially feel wounded, it is crucial to get checked out by a medical practitioner to rule out any underlying ailments.
Report the Accident: You should immediately report the collision to your insurance provider and the police. Provide as much information as possible regarding the accident, including the date, time, location, and names of any witnesses.
Describe the Scene: Take photographs of the accident scene, including vehicle damage and any injuries you may have incurred. Obtaining the contact information of any witnesses is also essential.
Call a Personal Injury Lawyer It is crucial to contact a personal injury lawyer as soon as possible following an automobile accident caused by a distracted driver. An experienced attorney can guide you through the claims procedure and ensure that you obtain the proper compensation.
Seek Legal Action: Your attorney will determine what is the most appropriate legal action to take. This may involve negotiating a settlement with the at-fault driver’s insurance company or initiating a lawsuit against them.
In Conclusion:
Distracted driving is a significant issue on South Carolina’s roadways, and it can have severe effects. If you’ve been involved in a car collision caused by a distracted driver, it’s crucial to seek medical attention and contact an experienced personal injury attorney as quickly as possible. At David W. Martin Law Group, our South Carolina car wreck lawyers will fight to get you the compensation you deserve to allow you to recover and get back to the point you were before the wreck. Call today to schedule a free consultation.
