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.
Awarded & Recognized What Our Clients Are Saying
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I met with Marie Banks to go over Car Accident Preparedness. She was awesome and so full of knowledge. Patient with all my questions and I left her office feeling good about the insurance I had and felt prepared if an accident were to happen. She treated me like family. Thank you! 10 out of 10 would definitely recommend.- Pranish Sharma
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“Marie was able to explain my coverage in a way that made it digestible and understandable. With Marie's help I was able to fix my insurance coverage to a policy that included the best protection and I now also rest easier knowing I'm in good hands if I eve”- Josh Talmore
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I'm a UF student who got injured on campus. Schackow & Mercadante handled my case extremely well. Everything was settled in about a year. I highly recommend them for any personal injury case.- Jenny Haber
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“The lawyers and staff at Schackow & Mercadante are professional, courteous and above all treat you like the person you are. You are not a number, you are not just a paycheck, but you are a friend, a guest, dare I even say, a family member.”- Ashley Wilson
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I would absolutely trust Schackow & Mercadante to handle any injury claim. After several meetings with their staff, I'm 100% comfortable with their positive outlook and trust they want what's best for their clients.- Rob Matthews
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They treated me with great respect and negotiated a settlement for me far beyond my expectations. They answered my calls promptly and were available each time I needed them throughout my case. I have recommended this law firm to others I know because I trust the attorneys and staff here immensely.- T Harrison
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I highly recommend Schackow & Mercadante, P.A.!!! The office staff is very polite and professional. Attorneys were great and treated me like a family member.- Kevin Drye
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
- Texting while driving
- Personal grooming
- Trying to read a map
- Adjusting a radio
- Talking to passengers
- Watching TV or video
- Eating and drinking
- Using a navigation system
- 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) 261-6767 or contact us online for your free consultation.
Why Clients Trust Us
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Personalized Advice & Concierge Level Experience
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Direct Communication With Your Attorney
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Over 125 Years of Combined Experience
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Practicing in The Gainesville Area 55+ Years