How Does Distracted Driving Cause Accidents?

If you were hurt in an accident caused by distracted driving, you may be wondering, “How does distracted driving cause accidents?” and if you can seek compensation for your injuries and losses. Distracted driving diverts attention from the road, delays reaction times, impairs judgment, and significantly increases collision risks. You can obtain compensation for a serious accident through a personal injury claim with the help of an experienced Chicago car accident lawyer.

What Is Distracted Driving?

Distracted driving is a leading cause of vehicular accidents especially among younger drivers when their attention is diverted from the road. Activities like texting, using a navigation system, eating, or even engaging with passengers can severely impair reaction times.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), there are three main types of driver distraction leading to motor vehicle crashes:

• visual distractions, taking your eyes off the road;
• manual distractions, taking your hands off the wheel; and
• cognitive distractions, taking your mind off driving.

What Are Illinois Distracted Driving Laws?

In Illinois, it is illegal to use an electronic communication device while driving. This includes a driver electronic device like a hand held cell phone, laptop, tablet, and two-way radios. The only exceptions to this law are in cases of emergency or when the driver is using a hands-free device. Hands free cell phones may only be used by drivers who are aged 19 or older.

Starting in 2023, it is illegal to conduct meetings in Illinois while operating a vehicle. Video conferencing gained popularity during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, instances of individuals taking these virtual meetings on the road have prompted new regulations. Consequently, law enforcement officials are cracking down on this hazardous practice.

Distracted Driving Incident Rates

According to the Insurance Information Institute (III), 8% of fatal crashes or 3,211 fatal accidents, were distracted driving fatalities.

The Illinois State Police issued over 10,000 citations for distracted driving in 2023; new laws will continue to help the efforts to decrease the number of traffic crashes and citations for distracted drivers.

Types of Distracted Driving Accidents

A variety of activities, including cell phone use, can divert attention from driving and fall under the umbrella of distracted driving.

Texting, scrolling, taking selfies, vlogging, posting, emailing, or surfing the internet are all forms of distracted driving not limited to young drivers.

In addition to using hand held electronic devices and cell phones, there are other behaviors that cause inattentive drivers to become distracted:

• Eating and drinking while driving
• Tuning the radio
• Interacting with passengers
• Putting on makeup
• Daydreaming

If I’m Injured by a Distracted Driver, What Should I Do?

If you’re injured by a distracted driver, it’s crucial to first seek medical attention for your injuries. Then, document the accident scene if you can, by taking photos and obtaining witness contact information.

Finally, consult with a personal injury attorney at The Kryder Law Group, LLC Accident and Injury Lawyers who can guide you through the process of filing a compensation claim.

Injuries Suffered in Distraction-Related Crashes

Victims of distracted driving accidents may suffer serious injuries and lasting bodily damage, enduring pain, and reduced mobility. These injuries can extend beyond physical harm, affecting their work, financial stability, and overall quality of life, including mental anguish related to the trauma they experienced in car accidents.

Injuries include:

• Spinal cord injuries
• Head trauma
• Burn injuries
• Eye injuries
• Damage to organs or major body systems
• Broken bones

Compensation Motor Vehicle Accidents’ Victims May Recover

Victims of motor vehicle accidents caused by a distracted driver may be entitled to compensation for their injuries and losses.

These include:

• Pain and suffering
• Lost life enjoyment
• Medical bills
• Lost wages
• Future lost earning capacity
• Permanent injury
• Scarring
• Transportation expenses
• Property damage
• Cost of mental health treatment
• Cost of physical therapy

How The Kryder Law Group, LLC Accident and Injury Lawyers Can Help

At The Kryder Law Group, LLC Accident and Injury Lawyers, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive legal representation for victims of a distracted driving crash. Our experienced attorneys understand the complexities of personal injury claims and work tirelessly to ensure that justice is served, helping you to secure the maximum compensation for your suffering and financial losses.

We stand by you at every step, advocating for your rights and holding negligent drivers accountable for their actions.

Call Us for a Free Consultation

During a free consultation, a personal injury attorney from our team will evaluate your case, discuss legal options, and strategize on securing the compensation you deserve for your injuries and losses.