Common Distractions while Driving
Not all forms of distraction are the same. While most of the focus on distracted driving centers on mobile devices, numerous things could pull a driver’s attention away from the road. Three categories of distractions generally impact a driver in Lancaster and a skilled lawyer at McDonald At Law could discover which one is to blame for the wreck.
Visual Distractions
A visual distraction is anything that draws a motorist’s eyes away from traffic. Visual distractions are dangerous, given that road conditions often change dramatically in a matter of seconds, which can be less time than it takes to read an email or text message or change the radio station.
Physical Distractions
Some distractions do not take a motorist’s eyes off the road. Physical distractions occur when a person takes one or both hands off the steering wheel to perform a task, such as grooming or eating.
Mental Distractions
A driver could also cause an accident by turning their attention away from the act of driving. This could involve engaging in a conversation or even daydreaming.
Evidence in Lancaster Distracted Driving Cases
The evidence used by the injured party in distracted driving cases can vary depending on the type of distraction. When it comes to physical distractions, a witness could testify that they saw the driver eating or grooming at the time of the crash.
Often, the strongest evidence in these cases is the word of the at-fault driver. For example, a driver who admits to the police that they were changing the radio station or texting while driving could see that admission used against them in court.
If a distraction involves the use of an electronic device, a claimant might be able to subpoena records related to its use. For example, phone records could show whether a driver was sending a text or watching a video when their vehicles crashed. A seasoned lawyer at McDonald At Law could gather the appropriate evidence to prove a distracted driver’s negligence.
Deadline to File a Claim in Lancaster
A claim is possible following a distracted driving accident, but only until the end of the statute of limitations. The statute of limitations requires an injured motorist to file their claim within two years from the date of a distracted driving accident. Otherwise, they will miss out on any chance to recover damages in the future. A proactive attorney at McDonald At Law could ensure that the distracted driving crash claim is filed correctly and on time.
Contact an Attorney about a Lancaster Distracted Driving Accident Today
If distracted driving played a part in your accident, you have the right to hold the other motorist accountable through civil litigation. Successful claims for distracted driving accidents in Lancaster could recover damages for your hospital bills, lost wages, and other expenses. To learn how a lawyer at McDonald At Law could help you with your case, reach out right away for an initial consultation.