Sitting on the driving seat of a vehicle comes with great responsibility. You become responsible for the lives of people travelling with you, as well as those in surrounding vehicles. Thus it becomes essential that drivers concentrate entirely on the road, without any distractions. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Association, 20% of all road accidents in the US are caused due to distracted drivers.
Distracted driving is driving while performing any activity that hinders the driver's ability to concentrate. Several acts may fall under the umbrella of distracted driving. Using your cell phone, applying make-up, dealing with a pet are all considered as acts that might distract you. Most laws focus on electronic gadgets that are considered as distracting for drivers. Several states have placed bans on using any electronic devices while driving. Others have prohibited personal grooming while on the road. Breaching these laws may lead to persecution and litigation.
If you are involved in a car accident caused due to a distracted driver in another vehicle, you might be able to get compensation. You need to prove that the other driver breached their duty and did not concentrate on the road. In some cases, the situation might get complicated and you may need evidence in form of pictures or eyewitnesses.
It is difficult to prove in court that a driver was distracted when an accident took place. Cases which involve distracted drivers are complex, and may require the expertise of an attorney. The attorney will be able to assess your situation and collect the required evidence to prove your case in court.