You're probably aware of the hazards associated with talking on a phone or texting while driving, but these aren't the only distracted driving behaviors that can lead to devastating accidents. Anything that diverts a driver's full attention from the task of safely operating the vehicle can be a dangerous distraction.
Driving While Emotional Is a Mental Distraction
While most people know better than to surf the web or eat behind the wheel (even if they ultimately do it anyway), few consider just how hazardous it can be to drive while emotions are running high. Unfortunately, though driving to get away from negative situations, relieve stress, or help clear thoughts is common, it creates the kind of mental distraction that can lead to crashes. According to a study conducted by researchers at the Virginia Tech Transportation Institute (VTTI), being visibly sad, angry, agitated, or excited can be just as impairing as driving under the influence of alcohol, increasing the risk of being involved in an accident nearly tenfold.
If you were hurt in a crash caused by a driver who was distracted by strong emotions, you may have grounds for a personal injury lawsuit, which allows you to seek compensation for:
- Accident-related medical expenses
- Wages lost while you were out of work recovering from your injuries
- Property damage repair or replacement costs for damages to your vehicle
- Physical pain and suffering
- Psychological trauma
- And other losses
However, California personal injury law is complex and you'll need a highly-experienced accident attorney to help you recover the damages you deserve. Your attorney can help you prove the elements necessary to win a recovery in a personal injury case:
- The defendant had a duty to operate their vehicle safely
- The defendant breached that duty with their distraction
- The breach of duty distraction caused the crash in question
- You suffered economic or non-economic damages as a result
We do this by conducting a thorough investigation into the accident, gathering vital evidence and documentation, interviewing witnesses and experts, and preparing every case as if it's going to court.
Schedule an Appointment to Discuss Your Distracted Driving Case
Contact the Inland Empire Law Group today at (888) 694-3529 to set up an appointment for a free, no-obligation initial consultation to find out how we can assist you.
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