Syracuse Distracted Driving Accident Attorney

Fighting For Those Who Have Been Injured By Distracted Drivers in New York

When you get behind the wheel of a car, you assume a certain amount of responsibility for your actions. You know that you will have to share the road with other drivers, and that means focusing on the road to ensure your safety as well as the safety of others. But not every driver is that responsible.

Distracted driving is dangerous because it diverts the driver's attention from the road, making it difficult for them to react appropriately to sudden changes or hazards in the environment. Distractions can be visual (taking your eyes off the road), manual (taking your hands off the wheel), or cognitive (taking your mind off driving). Activities like texting, talking on the phone, eating, using a GPS, or changing the radio station are common distractions that can lead to serious accidents.

At Cherundolo Law Firm, PLLC, we understand the pain and suffering that people who are injured by distracted drivers go through. We also know that distracted driving accidents are often preventable. If a driver's negligence caused you to be injured, you deserve to be compensated for your losses. Our Syracuse distracted driving accident attorneys can help you seek the justice you deserve.

To learn more about your legal options after a distracted driving accident, call (315) 544-3332or fill out our online contact form to get started with our distracted driving accident lawyer in Syracuse.

What Is Considered Distracted Driving?

Driving while distracted is incredibly common. Many people think that they can drive while doing one simple task, like checking the time or changing the radio station. However, these seemingly simple actions can be incredibly dangerous when combined with the task of driving.

Any activity that takes your eyes, hands, or minds away from the road is considered distracted driving. Examples include:

• Using a cell phone. Talking on the phone, whether it is with a hands-free device or not, takes your attention away from the road. Texting and driving is even more dangerous because you have to look down to read and send a message.
• Eating and drinking. Eating, drinking, or putting on makeup while driving is a recipe for disaster. You can't safely do these things and drive at the same time.
• Using a GPS. Using a GPS on your phone is a common cause of distracted driving accidents. You have to look down to read the directions and then look back up to see where you are going. This is incredibly dangerous.
• Adjusting the radio and climate controls. Changing the radio station or the temperature in your car takes your eyes and mind away from the road. If you are trying to do this while driving, you are putting yourself and others in danger.
• Reading a book or newspaper. Reading a book or newspaper while driving is incredibly dangerous. You can't focus on what you are reading and what is happening on the road at the same time.

Common Injuries in Distracted Driving Accidents

Distracted drivers pose a significant danger on the road, endangering themselves and others. By failing to pay attention to the road, they increase the risk of causing serious accidents and inflicting injuries on innocent individuals. These injuries can have far-reaching consequences for the victims and their families, ranging from physical pain and suffering to emotional trauma and financial burdens. It is crucial for everyone to recognize the seriousness of distracted driving and to prioritize safe and attentive driving practices to protect ourselves and those around us.

Distracted driving accidents can result in:

• Broken bones
• Severe head injuries
• Spinal cord injuries
• Internal organ damage
• Nerve damage
• Catastrophic injuries

In the worst cases, distracted driving can result in wrongful death. When a driver's negligence causes a fatal accident, the victim's family can seek justice. Our Syracuse distracted driving accident lawyers know how to prove liability and help you recover the compensation you deserve.

What Is the Law Regarding Distracted Driving in New York?

Distracted driving is taken seriously in New York, and the state has implemented laws to address and penalize such behavior. Key points regarding distracted driving laws in New York include:

• Handheld Device Use: It is illegal to use a handheld electronic device while driving. This includes talking on a handheld cellphone or texting.

• Hands-Free Devices: While talking on a handheld cellphone is prohibited, using hands-free devices is allowed for drivers over the age of 21.

• Texting and Driving: All drivers are prohibited from using portable electronic devices for texting or other purposes while the vehicle is in motion.

• Penalties: Violating these laws can result in fines, points on your driving record, and potential increases in insurance premiums.

The law allows for the use of a hands-free mobile telephone which allows the user to communicate without the use of either hand. However, using a handheld device while stopped in traffic or at a traffic light is still considered illegal.

What Damages Could a Distracted Driving Accident Claim?

These damages may include the following:

• Medical Expenses: Compensation for all medical expenses related to the accident, including emergency room visits, hospital stays, surgeries, medications, rehabilitation, and ongoing medical care.
• Lost Wages: If the accident caused you to miss work, you could be compensated for lost earnings. This includes both past and future earnings if the injuries leads to long-term or permanent disability.
• Pain and Suffering: Compensation for the physical pain and emotional distress endured as a result of the accident. This can be a significant component of the damages, as it accounts for the impact on your quality of life.
• Property Damage: Reimbursement for repair or replacement of your vehicle and any other personal property damaged in the accident.
• Loss of Consortium: Compensation for the negative impact on relationships with your spouse or family members because of the injuries sustained.
• Punitive Damages: In cases where the driver’s behavior was particularly egregious, punitive damages may be awarded to penalize the negligent party and deter similar manners in the future.

Steps to Take After a Distracted Driving Accident

If you’ve been involved in a distracted driving accident, taking the following steps can safeguard your rights and strengthen your case:

• Seek Medical Attention: Your health and safety are the top priority. Obtain medical care immediately, even if your injuries seem minor at first.
• Document the Scene: Take pictures of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries. Collect contact information from witnesses.
• Report the Accident: Make sure to contact law enforcement to file a police report. This official documentation can be crucial for your claim.
• Preserve Evidence: Keep all medical records, receipts, and any other documents that are related to the accident and your injuries.
• Consult an Attorney: Contact a Syracuse distracted driving accident lawyer to discuss your case and examine your legal options.

How Our Syracuse Distracted Driving Lawyers Can Help

If you have been injured by a distracted driver, it's important to consult with an experienced attorney. An attorney can help you:

• Investigate the Accident: Attorneys can conduct a thorough investigation into the accident, collecting and preserving crucial evidence that may establish the other party's fault. This could include police reports, witness statements, photos of the scene, and expert testimonies.

• Handle Insurance Companies: Dealing with insurance companies can be complex and overwhelming. An experienced attorney can negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf to ensure you receive a fair settlement.

• Evaluate Damages: A lawyer can help determine the full extent of your damages, including medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other losses. They can ensure you seek the maximum compensation possible.

• Legal Guidance: An attorney can provide legal advice throughout the process, helping you understand your rights and the best course of action to take.

• Representation in Court: If a fair settlement cannot be reached, a lawyer can represent you in court, presenting your case and fighting for your rights.

At Cherundolo Law Firm, PLLC, our Syracuse distracted driving accident attorneys understand the complexities of these cases and the specifics of New York law. We're committed to helping victims of distracted driving accidents seek the justice and compensation they deserve.

To learn more about how we can help you, call (315) 544-3332 or fill out our online contact form to schedule a consultation with our Syracuse distracted driving accident attorney.