Seattle Distracted Driving Accident Attorney

When you get behind the wheel, your attention should be on one task and one task only: driving safely. However, countless drivers succumb to distractions that take their eyes, hands, and minds off the road. If you or a loved one have been injured by a distracted driver in Seattle, you have the right to hold the driver accountable for their negligence—and a distracted driving car accident lawyer can help you seek justice.

Meet Sean B. Malcolm
Your Seattle Distracted Driving Accident Lawyer

Malcolm Law Firm Case Results

What Constitutes Distracted Driving in Washington?

In Washington, the law explicitly prohibits the use of electronic devices while driving, including cell phones, tablets, and gaming devices.

RCW 46.61.672. Using a personal electronic device while driving.

(1) A person who uses a personal electronic device while driving a motor vehicle on a public highway is guilty of a traffic infraction and must pay a fine as provided in RCW 46.63.110(3).

However, distracted driving encompasses more than just electronic device use. It can involve any cognitive, manual, or visual distraction that takes a driver’s attention away from the road, such as eating, grooming, adjusting the radio, or interacting with passengers.

Manual Distraction

A manual distraction is a type of distraction that takes the driver’s hands off the wheel. Some examples include:

• Eating or drinking: Holding food items or even spilling it in your car.
• Adjusting car controls: Changing GPS location, the temperature, or even music.
• Reaching for items: Grabbing something from the passenger seat or the back seats.
• Phone usage: Texting or holding your phone for a call.

Visual Distraction

A visual distraction is a type of distraction that takes your eyes away from the road. Some examples include:

• Phone usage: Reading notifications or checking GPS directions.
• Curiosity & Rubbernecking: Turning to look at a motor vehicle accident or something outside the vehicle.
• Looking at passengers: Turning to talk to someone or checking on children in the backseat.

Cognitive Distraction

A cognitive distraction is a type of distraction that takes the driver’s mind away from focusing on the road. Some examples include:

• Chatting: Your mind may be engaged in the conversation with your passengers, or even on a hands-free phone call.
• Daydreaming: Getting lost in thought and not paying attention to your surroundings.
• Emotional distractions: Thinking about personal issues or being upset while driving.
• Listening to audio: Your mind might be absorbed in the story instead of the road when listening to music, an audiobook, or a podcast.

When driving, some scenarios cause all 3 types of distractions to occur at once. For example, children may cause the driver to face cognitive, manual, and visual distractions. From emotionally and physically stopping your children from arguing with one another, grabbing a snack for your child, or even just checking in on them in your mirror, all can cause a distraction. It’s important to be prepared and have a plan to ensure less risk of your children distracting you.

Common Injuries Resulting from Distracted Driving Accidents

Distracted driving accidents can result in a wide range of injuries, from minor cuts and bruises to life-altering or even fatal injuries. Some of the most common injuries sustained in these car crashes include:

• Whiplash and other neck injuries
• Back and spinal cord injuries
• Traumatic brain injuries
• Broken bones
• Lacerations and contusions
• Internal organ damage
• Burn injuries

Your Rights as a Victim of a Distracted Driving Accident

Washington follows a fault-based system for car accidents, which means that negligent drivers are financially responsible for any accidents that they cause. Distracted driving is a form of negligence, meaning the at-fault driver failed to uphold their duty to operate their vehicle safely. After a distracted driving auto accident, you have the right to file an insurance claim or personal injury lawsuit against the distracted driver who caused your injuries.

Through your claim, you can recover compensation for:

• All medical expenses associated with the accident, including long-term and ongoing expenses
• Lost income while you were recovering from your injury or receiving medical treatment
• Loss of future earnings and benefits if your injury prevents you from returning to work or earning the same income
• Repairs and replacements for any property that was damaged in the car crash, including your vehicle
• The physical and emotional pain and suffering that you have endured as a result of the Seattle car accident

How a Seattle Distracted Driving Accident Attorney Can Strengthen Your Distracted Driving Claim

Distracted driving accidents can have devastating consequences, leaving victims with serious injuries, exorbitant medical bills, and extensive lost income. If you have been hurt in a crash caused by a distracted driver in King County, a Seattle distracted driving accident attorney can provide the support you need to recover fair compensation.

At Malcolm Law Firm, we have the knowledge, resources, and tenacity to build a strong case on your behalf. Our Washington State car accident lawyers can thoroughly investigate your accident, gather crucial evidence to prove liability, negotiate skillfully with insurance companies on your behalf, and represent your interests in court if necessary. Contact us at (206) 659-9514 to schedule a free consultation and learn how we can help you move forward.