Had an Accident Caused by a Distracted Driver?

Auto collisions caused by distracted drivers are pretty common in New Jersey. When a distracted driver causes a car accident, the victim or — in the event of fatality — his or her surviving family members, may have legal recourse. Civil claims may be filed in an effort to seek compensation for any losses sustained.

It is believed that distracted driving car accidents affect thousands of people every year. In fact, approximately 5,000 individuals across the country die annually as a result of such incidents — which makes up for 16 percent of all fatal collisions — and many more are injured. According to surveys conducted by the AAA Foundation, more than 80 percent of drivers view distracted driving as an issue, and most of those interviewed feel less safe on the road today than they did about five years ago.

Why the change? Electronic devices, mainly cell phones, are a big problem. Just about everyone has one, and many people use them when behind the wheel — specifically younger drivers.

Cell phone usage is not the only distraction affecting drivers, though. Eating, interacting with passenger, putting on makeup and various other things are also known to take a driver’s attention from the most important task at hand — keeping his or her eyes on the road. Regardless of why a person might become distracted, if that distraction leads to an accident, he or she may be held responsible for any resulting damages. One who has been injured or lost a loved one due to the actions of a distracted driver may seek compensation in a New Jersey civil court. If negligence can be established, relief may be awarded.

Source: aaafoundation.org, “Distracted Driving“, Accessed on March 20, 2016