Los Angeles Distracted Driving Accident Lawyers Who Get Results
Hit and injured by a distracted driver in the San Fernando Valley? We can help
Distracted driving accidents are common in Los Angeles and happen when victims least expect them to. Picture this: A driver, distracted by their smartphone, fails to notice the car ahead slowing down for a red light. They rear-end the vehicle, causing the driver ahead to suffer whiplash and other injuries. Emergency services are called, and the distracted driver is cited for their negligence.
The other driver was distracted, but you must prove to the insurance company that their client caused the car accident. That can be a tall order – distracted drivers and their insurance providers rarely want to admit fault. At Oaks Law Firm, our Los Angeles distracted driving accident attorneys are up to the challenge.
If you were hit and injured by a distracted driver in the San Fernando Valley, contact us today for a free case evaluation. We will fight for the compensation you deserve.
What counts as distracted driving in California?
Distracted driving is a leading cause of accidents on California roads. It involves any activity that diverts a driver's attention away from the primary task of driving. California law identifies several common forms of distracted driving, which can be broadly categorized into three types:
Visual Distractions: These occur when drivers take their eyes off the road. Examples include:
- Looking at a GPS device or map
- Reading or sending text messages
- Checking notifications on a smartphone or other electronic device
- Observing objects or events outside the vehicle, such as billboards or accidents
Manual Distractions: These involve taking hands off the steering wheel, which can occur when drivers:
- Eat or drink while driving
- Adjust the radio, climate controls, or other vehicle settings
- Use a smartphone or other electronic device to make calls, text, or browse
- Groom, such as putting on makeup or brushing hair
Cognitive Distractions: These occur when drivers' minds are not focused on driving. Common examples include:
- Daydreaming or being lost in thought
- Engaging in conversations with passengers
- Stress or emotional distress
- Focusing on complex tasks, such as mental planning or problem-solving
California has specific laws aimed at reducing distracted driving. For instance, it is illegal to use a handheld mobile phone while driving, except for certain situations, such as emergencies. Drivers under the age of 18 are prohibited from using any kind of electronic device while driving, even if it's hands-free.
The consequences of distracted driving can be severe, leading to accidents, injuries, and fatalities. It's crucial for drivers to stay focused, keep their hands on the wheel, and keep their eyes and minds on the road.
Evidence for a distracted driving accident claim in California
To successfully pursue a claim for a distracted driving accident in California, gathering strong evidence is crucial. Since California follows a "comparative fault" rule, demonstrating the degree of fault of each party involved can significantly impact the compensation you may receive. Here are key pieces of evidence that can help establish a distracted driving claim:
- Witness testimonies: Statements from witnesses who saw the accident can provide valuable information about the driver's behavior leading up to the collision. Witnesses may describe the distracted actions they observed, such as texting, eating, or talking on a phone.
- Police reports: A police accident report often contains an officer's observations and findings at the scene, including any signs of distraction. The report may note if the driver admitted to being distracted or if there was evidence of distractions, like a phone in hand.
- Cell phone records: Obtaining the at-fault driver's cell phone records can be compelling evidence. These records can show if the driver was texting or using their phone at the time of the accident, directly supporting claims of distracted driving.
- Surveillance footage: Nearby traffic cameras or security cameras from businesses may have captured the accident or the moments leading up to it. Footage can visually confirm that a driver was not paying attention to the road.
- Vehicle data: Many modern vehicles have data recording systems that can provide information on the car's speed, braking, and other activities just before the accident. This data can indicate whether the driver was taking corrective actions or was unaware of the impending collision.
- Photographs and videos: Photos and videos taken at the scene can document crucial details, such as the positions of the vehicles, road conditions, and any visible distractions, like food wrappers or electronic devices.
- Medical records: Documentation of injuries sustained in the accident can help establish the severity of the impact and correlate with distracted driving behaviors, such as not braking in time.
- Expert testimony: Accident reconstruction experts can analyze the evidence and provide professional opinions on how the distraction contributed to the accident. Their testimony can be instrumental in demonstrating fault and causation.
Gathering comprehensive evidence is essential to building a strong case and ensuring that the responsible party is held accountable. If you've been injured in a distracted driving accident, consulting with an attorney can help you navigate the process and secure the evidence needed for your claim.
Contact a Los Angeles distracted driving accident attorney today
At Oaks Law Firm, we know what it takes to prove that someone else’s inattention resulted in your injuries. Our distracted driving accident lawyers understand the unique types of evidence available in this crash scenario, as well as how to procure it and protect it from destruction.
If you were injured or a loved one was killed in a distracted driving accident in the San Fernando Valley, contact us to schedule a free case evaluation to learn more about the legal options specific to your case. We are available to hear from you 24/7.