Distracted Driving Accidents
Auto Accidents
Gainesville Distracted Driving Accident Attorneys
Representing Victims of Careless Drivers
Smartphones have become an integral part of our lives. Unfortunately, we tend to use them even while driving. Distracted driving has become one of the leading causes of traffic injuries and fatalities in the United States.
If you have been injured in a car accident caused by a distracted driving in Gainesville, our team at Schackow & Mercadante is dedicated to ensuring you receive the best possible representation. Here’s why you should consider our firm:
- Expertise and Experience: We have extensive experience handling distracted driving cases. Our knowledge of the laws and regulations surrounding these incidents allows us to build a strong case on your behalf.
- Investigation and Evidence Gathering: We conduct thorough investigations to gather critical evidence, such as phone records, witness statements, and surveillance footage. This evidence is essential in proving the distracted driver’s negligence.
- Negotiation Skills: Insurance companies often aim to minimize their payouts. We have strong negotiation skills and will work tirelessly to ensure you receive fair compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.
- Legal Guidance: Navigating the legal system can be complex and overwhelming. We provide clear and comprehensive guidance throughout the entire process, ensuring you understand your rights and options at every step.
- Advocacy and Support: We are committed to advocating for your best interests. Whether through settlement negotiations or courtroom representation, we strive to achieve the best possible outcome for you.
- Peace of Mind: Dealing with the aftermath of an accident can be stressful. By hiring us, you can focus on your recovery while we handle the legal complexities.
Our firm prioritizes your needs and work diligently to secure the justice and compensation you deserve. Trust us to be your advocate in your time of need.
Common Forms of Distracted Driving
Distracted driving refers to the act of driving while engaging in activities that divert the driver’s attention away from the primary task of operating the vehicle. These distractions can significantly increase the risk of accidents and can be categorized into three main types:
- Visual Distractions: Anything that causes the driver to take their eyes off the road.
- Manual Distractions: Activities that cause the driver to take their hands off the steering wheel.
- Cognitive Distractions: Situations that take the driver’s mind off the task of driving.
At Schackow & Mercadante, our lawyers have represented victims in liability claims following accidents caused by distracting activities, such as:
- Using a cell phone
- Personal grooming
- Adjusting a radio
- Watching TV or video
- Using a navigation system
- Texting while driving
- Trying to read a map
- Talking to passengers
- Eating and drinking
- Doing paperwork
According to a government-sponsored study from the Virginia Tech Transportation Institute, sending or receiving a text message takes a driver’s eyes off the road for an average of 4.6 seconds, which (at 55 mph) is the equivalent of traveling the length of a football field while driving blind. Unfortunately, a driver that is distracted by another task is far more likely to miss a stop sign, traffic light, slowing vehicle, or pedestrian crossing the street.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) concluded that driving while using a cell phone reduced the amount of focused brain activity by 37%. If you’ve been injured by a distracted driver, seek the advice of legal counsel to protect your right to seek recovery.
It is difficult to believe that a driver will risk the lives of others by engaging in texting or other distracting activities. However, such inexcusable acts are actually becoming very common. Unfortunately, many younger drivers have learned the hard way that inattention can lead to deadly accidents and serious injuries. When a wreck is caused by someone attempting to multitask behind the wheel, the driver’s conduct falls below the standards of behavior as imposed by the “law of negligence.”
If you or a loved one were injured by a distracted driver, call our office at (352) 371-3000 or contact us online for your free consultation.
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Over 125 Years of Combined Experience
Practicing in The Gainesville Area 55+ Years
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