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 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.
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.
(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. At times, a distracted driver not only can cause a vehicle accident, but may even crash into property. In fact, each year there is about 20,000 of vehicles that crash into buildings.
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 crashes include:
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 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 accident, including your vehicle
The physical and emotional pain and suffering that you have endured as a result of the 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, 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 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.
