By Joseph Dedvukaj, Personal Injury Attorney
One of the most common causes of car accidents, resulting in thousands of injuries and deaths annually, is distracted driving. Any activity that diverts a driver’s attention from the road, such as eating, adjusting the radio, or even conversing with passengers, can have devastating effects. A few seconds of inattention can mean the difference between arriving safely and causing a serious crash. Despite Michigan’s ban on texting while driving, many motorists continue to take unnecessary risks. You are entitled to compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering if you have been hurt by a distracted driver. As an experienced personal injury attorney, I fight to hold reckless drivers accountable and help victims get the justice they deserve.
How Dangerous Is Distracted Driving?
According to the NHTSA, over 3,500 people died in distracted driving crashes in 2021.
Legal Consequences of Distracted Driving
Fines & License Suspension – Many states heavily penalize texting while driving.
Numerous states have enacted severe penalties for texting while driving in order to combat the rising number of accidents caused by distracted driving. Heavy fines, driving record points, and even license suspension for repeat offenders are some of these penalties. In some states, the penalties for first-time offenders can be as high as $100, while those for subsequent offenses can be significantly higher. Additionally, accumulating too many violations may lead to increased insurance rates or even the loss of driving privileges. Law enforcement takes texting while driving seriously because it endangers everyone on the road. If you’ve been injured by a distracted driver, their negligence can be used as evidence in a personal injury claim, helping you seek compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Civil Lawsuits – If a distracted driver causes an accident, victims can sue for damages.
When a distracted driver causes an accident, victims have the legal right to file a civil lawsuit to seek compensation for their losses. Medical bills, lost wages, property damage, and suffering are all examples of these damages. Unlike traffic fines or criminal penalties, which are meant to punish the driver, a civil lawsuit focuses on helping victims recover financially and emotionally from the crash. Phone records, statements from witnesses, and traffic camera footage can all demonstrate that the driver was distracted at the time of the collision. This can help build a strong case. The case may go to trial, where a judge or jury will decide what a fair compensation should be. If a settlement cannot be reached through negotiations, the case may go to trial. Holding distracted drivers accountable not only helps victims but also reinforces the importance of responsible driving.
Criminal Charges – Fatal distracted driving crashes can lead to vehicular manslaughter charges.
Distracted driving isn’t just dangerous—it can also result in serious criminal charges, especially when it leads to a fatal crash. In many states, a driver who causes a death due to distraction, such as texting or using a phone while driving, can be charged with vehicular manslaughter or even reckless homicide. These charges have serious repercussions, including substantial fines, the loss of driving privileges, and the possibility of time in jail or prison. Prosecutors may use phone records, eyewitness testimony, and accident reconstruction reports to prove that distraction directly contributed to the crash. While no legal penalty can undo the loss of life, holding reckless drivers accountable serves as a strong deterrent and reinforces the importance of staying focused behind the wheel.
How to Stay Safe & Avoid Distractions
Use “Do Not Disturb” Mode on your phone.
Avoid eating or grooming while driving.
Always pull over if you need to text or make a call.
Injured by a Distracted Driver? You May Be Entitled to Compensation!
Contact Joseph Dedvukaj today for a free consultation.
