Despite all the warnings and the stricter laws, distracted driving still happens. In 2016, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reported 3,450 people were killed in accidents caused by distracted driving in 2016.
There were 391,000 drivers injured in accidents caused by distracted driving in 2017. In 2019, about 8.5 percent of all fatal auto accidents were caused by distracted driving.
The Importance of Filing a Claim
If you were not at fault for the crash, and if the other driver was driving distracted, you may want to pursue a personal injury claim against the responsible party to recoup compensation for the damages that you suffered. A car crash can cause various damages. You will likely incur expenses and suffer losses, so you will want to make sure you are compensated for those losses.
Those damages will include property damages, lost wages, medical expenses, mental anguish, pain and suffering, and more. A personal injury lawyer will help you determine which damages you suffered because of the crash.
As an example, a driver was distracted because she was trying to find a station on the radio and wasn’t focusing on the road. She ran through a stop sign and T-boned your car. You suffered a broken arm, a shoulder injury, and whiplash. You found yourself out of work for a few months and your medical bills added up to more than $10,000.
The Claims Process
You will need to get your claim started in a timely manner. There is a strict statute of limitations for pursuing a claim.
If you wait too long, you will not be able to recoup compensation for the damages that you suffered because of the accident. You will need to gather supporting evidence and documentation to show your damages and submit those copies with your claim.
Photos of the accident scene and damages, a copy of the accident report, witness statements, repair estimates, medical bills, medical records, and proof of missed work and lost wages. The more supporting evidence that you have, the more likely you are to reach a settlement with the insurance company of the at-fault driver. You will need to itemize your damages and then come up with the total value of your claim.
How a Lawyer Can Help You File Your Claim
Personal injury attorneys are experienced in gathering supporting evidence and documentation. Your accident injury attorney will review the details of your claim and help prove liability. Attorneys also have strong negotiation skills, and they will work to negotiate a settlement with the insurer before your claim has to advance to court.
An attorney will be familiar with the statute of limitations and all applicable laws in your state. Your personal injury lawyer will make sure your claim is filed in a timely manner and will work to ensure you are treated fairly throughout the claims process. Personal injury attorneys work on a contingency basis, so your lawyer will not be paid until you win your case. Complete the Free Case Evaluation above today!
