Distractions while driving are not news. We’ve been told for years of the things that we shouldn’t be doing while driving, but in the case that you’re in a car accident and are trying to claim personal injury, it’s important that you understand what types of distractions will be considered against you. At Westphal Law Group, we do everything that we can to provide you with the support that you need in the personal injury cases that make it to our desk, but there are certain circumstances where we simply aren’t able to provide you with an argument because of the distraction you were partaking in. We always suggest knowing what types of distractions are considered before you go and file a claim.
Smoking
This is likely the oldest distraction that still lingers. Smoking is related to only 1% of accidents, but it isn’t one that goes unnoticed. Between fiddling with a pack of cigarettes, dropping your smoke or losing focus because you’re trying to put it out, it’s not unheard of that individual’s driving wind up in a bind because of a bad time with a cigarette.
Texting
Known for being the distraction that is responsible for 12% of recorded distracted driving accidents, texting is an absolutely awful distraction. What makes it one of the worst distractions is that very few understand the risk that they’re putting themselves and others in when they do this. In fact, this is one of the worst habits that most people who are able to drive, partake in. The less that you are fiddling with your cellular device, the more time you have to make note of your surroundings and ensure that you’re prepared for any of the circumstances that could come up while on your drive.
Eating
Are you honestly surprised that this one made the list? While it isn’t one of the most hazardous distractions that happen in the car, eating is responsible for 2% of the reported distracted driving deaths. This is something that seems so minimal while you’re doing it, but it is a definite source of distraction for most drivers. The primary concern that we have is that when your hands are full with a burger, some fries or the soft drink you just got, they aren’t on the wheel, which leaves you fairly unprepared in the case that something pops up.
People
Within the last decade, there was a new rule that was made for individuals that are just getting their license. The rule states that any individuals who are just receiving their license can’t have any other passengers until about a year after they’ve been granted their license. This is more common for those getting their license right as they turn 16, but the change in law was instated for a reason, and it’s a good one. Other passengers are a huge distraction when driving. From asking to change the song to talking loudly and creating a general distraction, the passengers that you have in your car should be cautious of how big of a distraction they’re being because it could cost more than just a small loss of focus.
If you have recently been in a car accident and you were not distracted by any means while on the road, then you can count on the team at Westphal Law Group in San Bernardino to help you out. Working with a personal injury lawyer can be the best investment that you make in these circumstances. If you’re not sure what we would be able to provide you with, here’s just a quick glimpse so you have an idea.
Understanding
Having a basic understanding of personal injury law is something that we love being able to help our clients with. There are so many things that go into law that it only makes sense that you would invest in a professional personal injury lawyer to have your back, which leads me to our next point.
Support
This isn’t our first personal injury case, and because of that, we have gained tons of knowledge and experience in a wide range of skills and overall legal areas. We will be able to build up the support that you need for a strong case in court, and that’s something you can count on from our team. From the types of evidence that you’re going to want to provide to the different things you may have completely skipped over, we help you find the missing pieces so that a solid case is the only option when you walk into that courtroom.
If you’ve recently been in an accident, then it’s definitely time that you stop by and set up an appointment with the team at Westphal Law Group. We are excited to help you out and eager to see you through the outcome of your case.
