Tampa Distracted Driving Accident Lawyer
We live in a time when distractions are everywhere, especially from our mobile devices. But there are times when it is critical to avoid distraction and maintain focus on the task at hand. One such case is when you are operating a motor vehicle.
Unfortunately, we all know of cases where a distracted driver has caused an auto accident. Some of these crashes result in serious injury and even death to innocent people. If you are the victim of such an accident, you have the right to seek compensation for your injuries under the law. The Tampa distracted driving accident lawyer at Florin Gray can review your case and advise you of your options.
The Role of Distractions in Florida Car Accidents
“Distracted driving” refers to a broad category of behaviors, not all of them necessarily against the law. A distraction is basically anything that diverts a driver’s attention from the road. It can be something seemingly innocuous like chatting with a passenger in the car. Or it can involve using a smartphone or other handheld device instead of paying attention to safely operating the vehicle.
Some of other common distractions behind the wheel include:
- reaching for an object inside the vehicle, such as an item that has fallen underneath a seat;
- eating or drinking;
- personal grooming, such as looking in the vanity mirror to adjust hair or makeup;
- entering information into a GPS or similar navigational device; and
- looking out the window at another accident.
Even a diversion of a few seconds can make a crucial difference in whether or not an accident occurs. And the reality is that distracted driving accidents are among the most common types of motor vehicle crashes in Florida. By some estimates, roughly 40 percent of all car accidents in the Sunshine State involved some form of distracted driving.
From a legal standpoint, distracted driving is negligent driving. This means that the distracted driver can be held liable in a personal injury lawsuit brought by accident victims. The distracted driver–and in most cases, their insurance company–can be held responsible for a variety of losses such as:
- medical bills;
- past lost of income;
- diminished future earning potential;
- damage to personal property; and
- pain and suffering.
Keep in mind, however, that Florida is a “no fault” state with respect to auto accidents. This means that in most distracted driving accident cases, you will first need to seek compensation under your own insurance policy for your medical bills and lost wages. But if your injuries meet a certain “serious” threshold, you can step outside of the no-fault system and sue the other driver for the full amount of your damages.
If You Were Hit By a Distracted Driver Today, Call Florin Gray
Distracted driving may be common but that does not make it acceptable. If you have been injured by a driver who failed to keep their eyes on the road, it is best to speak with a skilled Tampa distracted driving accidents attorney as soon as possible. Contact Florin Gray today to schedule a free consultation.
