How Personal Injury Attorneys in Cincinnati Help Victims of Distracted Driving Accidents
Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of car accidents in Cincinnati and across the United States. Every day, drivers engage in activities like texting, eating, or using GPS devices while behind the wheel, putting themselves and others at risk. If you’ve been injured in an accident caused by a distracted driver, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and losses. At Bey & Associates, our experienced personal injury attorneys in Cincinnati are dedicated to helping victims navigate the legal process and secure the compensation they deserve.
Understanding Distracted Driving
Distracted driving refers to any activity that diverts a driver’s attention from the road. The three main types of distractions are:
- Visual: Taking your eyes off the road (e.g., looking at a phone or adjusting the radio).
- Manual: Removing your hands from the wheel (e.g., eating or reaching for an object).
- Cognitive: Diverting your focus from driving (e.g., daydreaming or engaging in a conversation).
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), distracted driving claimed 3,522 lives in 2021 alone. In Ohio, distracted driving remains a significant issue, prompting legislation to deter these behaviors and protect road users.
The Role of Personal Injury Attorneys in Distracted Driving Cases
When you’re injured in an accident caused by a distracted driver, working with a skilled personal injury attorney can make a significant difference in your case. Here’s how our attorneys help victims of distracted driving accidents:
- Investigating the Accident Establishing that the other driver was distracted at the time of the crash is crucial. Our attorneys gather evidence to prove liability, including:
- Police reports
- Witness statements
- Traffic camera footage
- Phone records
- Social media activity
- Proving Negligence To succeed in a personal injury claim, you must demonstrate that the other driver’s negligence caused the accident. This involves showing:
- The driver owed you a duty of care
- They breached that duty by driving while distracted
- Their breach directly caused your injuries
- You suffered damages as a result
- Calculating Damages Distracted driving accidents often result in significant physical, emotional, and financial losses. Our attorneys ensure that all damages are accounted for, including:
- Medical expenses (current and future)
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Property damage
- Negotiating With Insurance Companies Insurance adjusters may attempt to minimize your claim or deny it altogether. Our attorneys handle all communications with insurers, using evidence and legal strategies to negotiate a fair settlement on your behalf.
- Representing You in Court If a fair settlement cannot be reached, our attorneys are prepared to take your case to court. We present a compelling argument to the judge and jury, backed by thorough evidence and expert testimony.
Ohio Laws on Distracted Driving
Ohio has enacted laws to combat distracted driving and hold negligent drivers accountable. Key aspects include:
- Texting and Driving Ban: Ohio law prohibits all drivers from writing, sending, or reading text messages while driving.
- Handheld Device Restrictions for Minors: Drivers under 18 are prohibited from using handheld electronic devices for any purpose while driving.
- Enhanced Penalties: Distracted driving can result in fines, license points, and additional penalties if it leads to an accident.
Understanding these laws is essential for building a strong case against a distracted driver.
Steps to Take After a Distracted Driving Accident
If you’ve been injured in a distracted driving accident, taking the following steps can protect your rights and strengthen your case:
- Seek Medical Attention: Your health should be your top priority. Prompt medical treatment also creates documentation of your injuries.
- Call the Police: Filing an official police report is critical for documenting the accident and identifying potential distractions.
- Gather Evidence: Take photos of the accident scene, vehicles, and injuries. Collect contact information from witnesses.
- Avoid Speaking With Insurance Adjusters: Let your attorney handle communications with insurers to prevent statements that could harm your claim.
- Contact a Personal Injury Attorney: Reach out to Bey & Associates for a free consultation and legal guidance.
Why Choose Bey & Associates?
At Bey & Associates, we understand the devastating impact of distracted driving accidents. Our dedicated personal injury attorneys in Cincinnati are committed to fighting for justice on behalf of injured victims. With extensive experience handling complex cases, we provide personalized attention and aggressive representation to help you achieve a fair outcome.
Contact Us Today
If you’ve been injured in a distracted driving accident, don’t face the legal process alone. Contact Bey & Associates today for a free consultation. Let us handle the legal complexities while you focus on your recovery.