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Of all the ways a driver can be negligent, distracted driving is one of the most common and most dangerous. The CDC reports that approximately nine people are killed every day in the United States in accidents that involve a distracted driver. Despite the well-documented dangers of distracted driving, many motorists still engage in behaviors that take their eyes, hands, and attention from the road.
If you or a loved one has been harmed by a distracted driver, you may need help recouping the compensation you deserve for your medical bills and other expenses. Our Katy distracted driving accident lawyer at the Law Office of Shane McClelland, PLLC offers personalized, client-centered representation that gets results.
Schedule a free consultation with our firm by calling (713) 987-7107 or submitting an online contact form.
What is Considered Distracted Driving?
The CDC defines distracted driving as “anything that takes your attention away from driving.” There are many behaviors that can be considered distracted driving, but the behaviors generally fall into one or more of the following categories:
- Visual distractions: This includes anything that takes your eyes off of the road.
- Manual distractions: This includes anything that takes your hands off of the wheel.
- Cognitive distractions: This includes anything that takes your attention away from operating the vehicle.
One of the reasons why using a cell phone while driving is so dangerous is because it involves all three forms of distraction.
Some common examples of distracted driving include:
- Sending or receiving text messages/emails
- Viewing social media
- Checking GPS navigation
- Answering a phone call
- Eating or drinking
- Applying makeup/adjusting clothes
- Talking to passengers
- Looking at an accident or scenery
If you were injured in an accident because the other driver was distracted, you deserve to receive compensation for your injuries. Let our Katy distracted driving attorney help you recover every penny of compensation you are owed.
Is Distracted Driving Illegal in Texas?
Texting while driving and other forms of cell phone use are illegal in the State of Texas, but other forms of distraction are not prohibited. Drivers who are caught texting while driving face being charged with a misdemeanor and may also be responsible for fines between $25 and $99. In cases where the driver caused injury or death to another person, they could face imprisonment and/or a fine of up to $4,000.
However, an action does not have to be illegal to be considered negligent. A driver who is distracted is failing to operate their vehicle with reasonable care and is therefore putting themselves and others at risk of serious injury. This could make them liable for damages in the event of a crash.
When Should I Call an Accident Attorney?
It’s in your best interest to contact a Katy, TX distracted driving accident lawyer in Katy as soon as you possibly can. Your attorney can guide your next steps as you get medical treatment and file a lawsuit with the at-fault driver’s insurance provider, helping you avoid costly mistakes. The sooner you are able to get in touch with an attorney, the longer your attorney will have to strengthen your case by collecting the evidence necessary to prove liability in your lawsuit.
The general statute of limitations for personal injury cases in Texas is two years. This means distracted driving accident victims generally have just a couple of years from the date of the crash to file a lawsuit. However, the specific details of a case can affect the applicable statute of limitations. It is crucial to consult with a Katy personal injury attorney to get accurate and up-to-date information based on your specific circumstances.
Contact a Distracted Driving Accident Attorney in Katy, Texas, for a Free Case Review
When considering a Katy car accident attorney, look to Attorney Shane McClelland. Mr. McClelland has almost 20 years of experience providing client-focused representation for personal injury cases in South Texas. His dedicated work ethic and prestigious accolades led to his being featured on numerous media outlets, including Fox News and NPR.
Schedule a free consultation with Attorney Shane McClelland today to discuss your distracted driving accident. Call our office at (713) 987-7107 or contact us online via our convenient contact form.
