Distracted driving car accidents in Houston not only cause severe injuries, they can claim lives. Unfortunately, despite Texas laws that prohibit sending or receiving electronic messages while driving, as well as requirements to keep attention on the road, many drivers continue to struggle with potent distractions. If you suffered injuries in an accident with a distracted driver, you may have the right to compensation for your losses. A respected car accident lawyer can help you move forward with a claim.
How Distraction Impacts Drivers
Distraction behind the wheel typically involves one of three components: visual distraction, in which the driver takes their eyes away from the road; manual distraction, which occurs when the driver takes one or both hands off the wheel or away from the task of operating the vehicle; and cognitive distraction, which involves a driver paying attention to something other than the task of driving. Some types of distraction involve more than one element: for example, texting while behind the wheel may involve all three types of distraction.
Distracted drivers have trouble paying attention to the road and to what takes place around them. They may not realize that another vehicle has changed course in front of them, that a light has changed, or that a hazard has been introduced to the road around them. Unfortunately, that leaves them without adequate time to respond to scenarios that could lead to an accident. Not only does distraction increase accident risk, it may raise the severity of the accident, causing more serious injuries for everyone in the vehicle.
Common Distractions Behind the Wheel
While texting and driving often comes to mind first when considering distracted driving scenarios, other distractions can cause just as much trouble for Houston drivers. Common distractions include:
- Eating or drinking behind the wheel
- Changing stations on the radio
- Programming or changing a GPS device
- Handing things to children in the back seat
- Dealing with pets in the vehicle
- Putting on makeup
- Having a conversation with someone else in the vehicle
Even hands-free devices, which are permitted by Texas law, can cause serious distractions that prevent the driver from navigating safely on the road.
Compensation for Distracted Driving Accidents
After distracted driving car accident crashes, individuals in Houston who suffer injuries because of the distracted driver’s breach of care may have the right to recover compensation. Claims typically include compensation for the victim’s medical bills, including the future anticipated cost of medical treatment; any income they lost because of their injuries; and their pain and suffering.
The distracted driver does not necessarily have to receive a distracted driving citation in order for the injured individuals to recover compensation. Distracted drivers might engage in a variety of potentially dangerous behaviors due to that distraction, all of which can leave them liable for the accident.
Seek Compensation for Distracted Driving Car Accidents in Houston with Help from a Lawyer
When you are struck by a distracted driver in Houston, you can end up with most than just broken bones and a brain injury. They can prove financially devastating and emotionally draining. A personal injury lawyer can provide you with the support you need to navigate a car accident claim, including assistance dealing with the insurance company that covers the liable party. Reach out to Schechter, Shaffer, & Harris today to discuss your accident and the compensation you may deserve.
