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Dedicated Ohio Distracted Driving Accident Lawyers
Injured in an accident caused by a distracted driver? Our Ohio attorneys can help
Distracted driving remains a critical issue on our roads, contributing to countless accidents and devastating consequences each year. At Crandall & Pera Law, we understand the profound impact that distracted driving accidents can have on individuals and families across Ohio. From texting behind the wheel to adjusting GPS devices or even eating while driving, distractions can cause split-second decisions that lead to life-altering injuries. Our firm is dedicated to advocating for victims of distracted driving accidents, leveraging our extensive legal skills to hold negligent drivers accountable and secure fair compensation for our clients.
With a proven track record in personal injury law, our team of Ohio distracted driving accident lawyers stands ready to provide compassionate support and aggressive representation to those injured in distracted driving accidents. We meticulously investigate each case, working closely with experts to uncover evidence of distraction and build a compelling case for compensation. Whether you have suffered medical expenses, lost wages, or endured pain and suffering due to a distracted driver's negligence, our goal is to ensure that you receive the justice and financial recovery you deserve. If you or a loved one has been harmed in a distracted driving accident, contact us today for a consultation.
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What is distracted driving?
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that 3,308 people lost their lives in distracted driving accidents in 2022.
Distracted driving refers to any activity that diverts a driver's attention away from the primary task of driving. These distractions can be visual (taking eyes off the road), manual (taking hands off the wheel), or cognitive (taking mind off driving). Common examples include texting or using a cell phone, eating and drinking, talking to passengers, adjusting the radio or navigation system, and even daydreaming. Distracted driving significantly increases the risk of accidents, as it reduces a driver's ability to react to hazards and control their vehicle effectively. It is a major concern on roads worldwide, leading to injuries, fatalities, and substantial property damage each year.
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) also reports:
An analysis aggregating the results of 28 experimental studies using driving simulators or instrumented vehicles reported that typing or reading text messages significantly slowed reaction time, increased lane deviations and increased the length of time drivers looked away from the roadway (Caird et al., 2014).
Cellphone use also affects how drivers scan and process information from the roadway. Drivers generally take their eyes off the roadway to dial or manipulate a hand-held phone. In contrast, drivers engaged in cellphone conversations and other forms of cognitive distraction tend to concentrate their gaze toward the center of the roadway (Recarte & Nunes, 2000; Recarte & Nunes, 2003; Reimer et al., 2012), but their attention still may be diverted from driving, and this may make it difficult for drivers to process what they are looking at (Strayer et al., 2003).
What types of injuries happen in Ohio distracted driving accidents?
In Ohio, distracted driving accidents can result in a wide range of injuries, varying in severity based on the nature of the accident and other factors. Common injuries include:
- Brain injuries: These can range from concussions to more severe traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), leading to cognitive impairment, headaches, and in some cases, permanent disability.
- Spinal cord injuries: Damage to the spinal cord can cause paralysis or loss of sensation in various parts of the body, affecting mobility and quality of life.
- Broken bones and fractures: Impact from a collision can result in broken bones, such as arms, legs, ribs, and facial bones.
- Soft tissue injuries: Sprains, strains, and bruising to muscles, ligaments, and tendons are common, often causing pain and limited mobility.
- Internal injuries: Blunt force trauma can lead to internal bleeding, organ damage, or injuries requiring surgical intervention.
- Psychological injuries: Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression can develop following a traumatic accident, affecting mental health and daily functioning.
The severity of these injuries can vary widely, and some may require extensive medical treatment, rehabilitation, and ongoing care. If you have been injured in a distracted driving accident in Ohio, seeking prompt medical attention and legal advice are important steps toward recovery and pursuing compensation for your damages.
Who is liable for my Ohio distracted driving accident and injuries?
Liability for a distracted driving accident and resulting injuries typically falls on the driver who was distracted and caused the accident. Here are some key points to consider:
- Negligence: If a driver's distraction—such as texting, talking on the phone, or other activities—contributed to the accident, they may be held liable for negligence. This means they failed to exercise reasonable care while driving, which directly led to your injuries.
- Employer liability: If the distracted driver was operating a vehicle for work purposes, their employer might also be held liable under certain circumstances, especially if the distraction occurred during the course of employment.
- Comparative fault: Ohio follows a modified comparative fault rule. This means that even if you were partially at fault for the accident, you can still seek compensation. However, your recovery may be reduced by your percentage of fault.
- Third-party liability: In some cases, other parties may share liability. For instance, if a manufacturer's defective product (e.g., a faulty car part) contributed to the accident, they could be held responsible.
- Evidence and investigation: Establishing liability requires gathering evidence such as witness statements, police reports, cell phone records, and possibly expert testimony to demonstrate that the distracted driving caused or contributed to the accident.
To determine liability accurately in your Ohio distracted driving accident case, consult with the knowledgeable personal injury attorneys at Crandall & Pera Law. We can assess the specifics of your situation, navigate the legal complexities, and advocate on your behalf to ensure you receive fair compensation for your injuries and damages.
Skilled Ohio distracted driving accident attorneys
If you sustained injuries in a distracted driving accident in Ohio, do not face the aftermath alone. Our team at Crandall & Pera Law is dedicated to helping victims like you recover the compensation they deserve. We understand the complexities of Ohio's laws and will fight tirelessly to hold negligent drivers accountable for their actions. Contact us today for a consultation to discuss your case and learn how we can help you navigate the legal process. Your health and financial recovery are our top priorities—let us advocate for you and seek the justice you deserve. Please call our offices or fill out our contact form to schedule a no-obligation consultation. We have five Ohio law offices located in Cleveland, Columbus, Cincinnati, Chesterland, and Chagrin Falls.