Atlanta Car Crash Lawyers: Dealing with Distracted Driving Cases
Distracted driving has become one of the most significant threats to road safety in Atlanta, Georgia, leading to numerous accidents and devastating injuries. If you or a loved one has been injured in a car crash caused by a distracted driver, you may be wondering what your next steps should be. At Bey & Associates, we are committed to helping victims of distracted driving accidents pursue justice and fair compensation. This blog post will explore how Atlanta car crash lawyers handle distracted driving cases and build a strong case for victims.
What Is Distracted Driving?
Distracted driving occurs when a driver takes their attention away from the road, whether by using a smartphone, adjusting the radio, eating, or even talking to passengers. Any activity that takes the driver’s hands, eyes, or focus off driving can be classified as distracted driving. Unfortunately, these distractions can have deadly consequences, leading to accidents that can cause severe injuries or even fatalities.
In Georgia, distracted driving is a significant problem, particularly in a bustling city like Atlanta, where traffic congestion and busy streets create a high potential for accidents. Georgia has laws in place to prevent distracted driving, such as the Hands-Free Georgia Act, which prohibits drivers from holding a phone or other electronic device while driving. However, despite these efforts, distracted driving remains a leading cause of car accidents.
The Role of an Atlanta Car Crash Lawyer in Distracted Driving Cases
If you’ve been involved in a car crash caused by a distracted driver, an experienced Atlanta car crash lawyer can help you navigate the complex legal process and hold the at-fault driver accountable. Here are some of the key ways a lawyer can assist you with your case:
1. Gathering Evidence
Proving that distracted driving caused your accident can be challenging, especially since drivers may not readily admit to being distracted at the time of the crash. An Atlanta car crash lawyer will conduct a thorough investigation to gather the necessary evidence to support your claim. This may include:
- Police Reports: The official accident report may contain important details, such as witness statements or indications that the driver was using a phone.
- Eyewitness Testimonies: Witnesses who saw the driver engaging in distracted behavior, such as texting or talking on a phone, can provide critical evidence.
- Cell Phone Records: Your lawyer can obtain the distracted driver’s phone records to determine if they were using their phone at the time of the accident.
- Surveillance Footage: Traffic cameras or surveillance cameras from nearby businesses may capture video footage of the accident, providing additional proof of distracted driving.
By gathering this evidence, an experienced lawyer can build a compelling case that demonstrates the other driver’s negligence and establishes liability.
2. Negotiating with Insurance Companies
Insurance companies are notorious for offering low settlements to accident victims in an effort to minimize their payouts. When dealing with a distracted driving accident, having a lawyer by your side is crucial to ensure you receive fair compensation.
Your Atlanta car crash lawyer will handle all communication with the insurance company, ensuring that your rights are protected and that you do not fall victim to their tactics. They will also negotiate on your behalf to secure compensation for:
- Medical expenses (both current and future)
- Lost wages
- Property damage
- Pain and suffering
Without an experienced lawyer, it can be challenging to understand the true value of your claim, and you may be tempted to accept an offer that doesn’t fully cover your losses.
3. Filing a Personal Injury Lawsuit
If the insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement, your lawyer may advise you to file a personal injury lawsuit. In Georgia, you generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim. Filing a lawsuit can put additional pressure on the insurance company to offer a fair settlement and demonstrate that you are serious about seeking fair compensation.
If your case goes to trial, your lawyer will represent you in court, presenting the evidence and making arguments to show that the other driver’s negligence caused your injuries. They will fight to ensure that you receive the compensation needed to cover your losses and help you move forward with your life.
Compensation Available in Distracted Driving Cases
Victims of distracted driving accidents in Atlanta may be able to obtain compensation for a range of damages. Your lawyer will work with you to determine the extent of your losses and ensure that you seek adequate compensation. Potential damages may include:
- Medical Bills: This includes emergency room visits, surgeries, physical therapy, and any future medical treatment required as a result of the accident.
- Lost Wages: Compensation for time missed from work due to your injuries, as well as any reduction in earning capacity if your injuries prevent you from returning to your previous job.
- Pain and Suffering: Compensation for the physical pain and emotional distress you have experienced as a result of the accident.
- Property Damage: Reimbursement for damage to your vehicle and other personal property.
Preventing Distracted Driving Accidents
While distracted driving accidents are far too common, there are steps that drivers can take to help prevent these tragic incidents. By keeping your focus on the road and avoiding distractions such as texting, eating, or using in-car technology, you can help make Atlanta’s roads safer for everyone.
Take Action Today
If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident caused by a distracted driver in Atlanta, it is essential to seek the help of an experienced car crash lawyer. At Bey & Associates, we are committed to fighting for the rights of accident victims and helping them receive the compensation they deserve. A lawyer can guide you through the legal process, gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and represent you in court if necessary. Don’t let a distracted driver’s negligence leave you facing financial and emotional hardships on your own. Contact Bey & Associates today for a consultation and learn how we can help you get the justice and compensation you need to move forward with your life.