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Fighting distracted driving on Connecticut roads

On Behalf of | May 4, 2018 | Firm News

As a driver in Connecticut, you know that distracted driving is a problem that poses a serious threat to you and others on the road. With the increase in smartphone use and in-car technology that requires significant driver interaction, there are now more things than ever before that can distract a driver. 

The source of distraction is often cell phone use. Texting and talking on the phone are two of the most common reasons for distracted driving, but they are not the only ones. Understanding distracted driving requires understanding how the brain works and how a lack of focus can affect a driver’s ability to think and physically react in an appropriate amount of time.

The effect of distraction on a driver

Distracted driving, regardless of the type, is always dangerous and always inexcusable. A driver has the responsibility of knowing when he or she is engaging in behavior that could impact the ability to drive safely. Distraction comes in various forms, and they can affect a person in the following ways:

  • Cognitively: Distraction can happen even with two hands on the wheel. It can occur when a driver is talking to a passenger, looking at something or even daydreaming while driving.
  • Physically: When a driver does something that requires him or her to remove a hand from the wheel, it is distraction. This may include texting, changing the radio station or even eating while driving.
  • Visually: Anything that takes the driver’s eyes off the road is visual distraction. This may be reading a text or even looking at a billboard while the car is in motion.

Texting or using the phone in any way is particularly dangerous because it often involves all three types of distraction. Despite knowing the dangers of texting while driving, people still engage in this dangerous behavior. You can fight back by seeking appropriate compensation if a distracted driver causes you harm.

Recovery after an accident

If you are the victim of an accident caused by the actions of a distracted driver, you have the right to seek financial compensation through a personal injury claim. While this cannot reverse what you experienced, it can allow you to recover some financial losses.

After an accident, you may find it beneficial to seek an evaluation of your case to understand your legal options. You can take quick action to protect your interests by seeking help as soon as possible after a motor vehicle accident.

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36-year-old laborer for landscaping company fractured wrist when fellow employee hit him with truck. Claimant received in excess of $30,000 in workers’ compensation benefits for total disability and medical expenses and settled with automobile insurance company for fellow employee for $95,000.

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34-year-old woman sustained concussion and neck and back injuries in hit-and-run accident on a New York highway. Claimant settled uninsured motorist claim for her $100,000 policy limits.

80-year-old woman sustained right foot fracture when her foot was run over in a parking lot. Case settled for at-fault driver’s policy limit of $100,000 prior to filing suit.

38-year-old nanny sustained right femur fracture when she fell down defective stairs in home of her employer’s neighbor. All medical expenses and lost wages reimbursed and case settled for an additional $150,000.

Claim against landlord for defective staircase in multi-family rental house. Claimant sustained a right femur fracture. Case settled for $125,000 prior to filing suit.

$95,000 judgment obtained against bar and nightclub for assault by one of its patrons against another patron.

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