Representing Victims of Distracted Driving in Denver
At Boesen Law, our Denver distracted driving accident lawyers are committed to helping injured victims and their families get the justice they deserve.
Distracted driving is any activity that diverts attention from driving, including talking or texting on your phone, eating and drinking, talking to people in your vehicle, changing the music—anything that takes your attention away from the task of safe driving.
Reach out to our law firm for a no-cost, no-obligation consultation today. Call our personal injury lawyers in the state of Colorado at (303) 999-9999 or contact us online.
Many activities that divert your attention from driving are dangerous. As a result, distracted driving is a leading cause of car accidents in the United States. If you or someone you love was injured in a car accident caused by a distracted driver, you may be entitled to compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Distracted Driving Statistics in Colodaro
According to the National Safety Council, distracted driving is a significant issue nationwide, contributing to approximately 1.6 million crashes annually, which is about 25% of all accidents in the United States. In Colorado, more than 40 accidents occur every day due to distracted driving. These alarming numbers highlight the critical need for awareness and stricter enforcement of distracted driving laws.
Types of Distracted Driving
There are three main types of distracted driving: visual, manual, and cognitive. Texting and driving is particularly dangerous because they combine all three types of distraction.
The three main types of distracted driving include:
- Visual Distractions: These occur when drivers take their eyes off the road, such as when looking at a phone or GPS device.
- Manual Distractions: Involves taking hands off the wheel, which can happen when eating, drinking, or adjusting controls.
- Cognitive Distractions: Occurs when a driver’s mind is not focused on driving, such as when daydreaming or having an intense conversation.
Texting and driving is illegal in Colorado. However, many drivers still engage in this dangerous behavior. When you send or read a text message, you take your eyes off the road for an average of 5 seconds. If you are driving 55 mph, that is the equivalent of driving the length of a football field with your eyes closed.
However, texting and driving is not the only form of distracted driving. Other common examples of distracted driving include:
- Talking on the phone
- Using a navigation system
- Adjusting the radio or music
- Using a smartphone
- Applying makeup
- Eating or drinking
- Talking to passengers
- Looking at something outside the vehicle
How Often Does Distracted Driving Lead to Accidents?
Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of car crashes, contributing to thousands of fatalities each year. It’s estimated that nearly 3,000 lives are lost annually due to accidents caused by drivers who aren’t fully focused on the road. This accounts for roughly 8% to 9% of all deadly traffic collisions in the United States. Whether it’s texting, eating, adjusting the radio, or other forms of distraction, these seemingly small actions can have devastating consequences. Staying attentive while driving is critical, not only for your safety but for everyone sharing the road.
Colorado’s Distracted Driving Laws
Colorado has specific laws aimed at reducing distracted driving. It is illegal for drivers of all ages to text while driving. Additionally, any interaction with a screen that leads to careless or imprudent driving is prohibited. For drivers under 18, using a cell phone for any purpose, except to contact law enforcement, is illegal. These laws are designed to mitigate the dangers associated with distracted driving, particularly among younger drivers.
Preventative Measures and Tools
Several tools and strategies can help drivers stay focused and prevent distracted driving:
- AT&T DriveMode: This app silences text message alerts while driving and automatically replies to texts.
- LifeSaver: An app that locks the phone while the car is moving, reducing the temptation to check notifications.
- SafeRide: Helps block incoming calls and texts, allowing drivers to stay focused.
What to Do After a Distracted Driving Accident
Being involved in an accident can be overwhelming. Here are the steps to take immediately after a distracted driving accident:
- Seek Medical Attention: Even if you feel uninjured, some injuries may not be immediately apparent.
- Document the Scene: Take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries. Collect contact information from witnesses.
- Notify the Police: Ensure a police report is filed, as this will be crucial for insurance claims and any legal proceedings.
- Consult a Lawyer: Contact an experienced car accident attorney to guide you through the legal process and help you secure the compensation you deserve.
How Should You Handle a Distracted Driver?
Dealing with a distracted driver can be tricky, but it’s important to stay calm and avoid actions that could escalate the situation. Aggressive behaviors, such as honking excessively, tailgating, or making rude gestures, can provoke the other driver and increase the chances of a dangerous incident. The best approach is to focus on your own safety. Keep a safe distance from the distracted driver and remain vigilant for any erratic movements or sudden changes in their driving. Be prepared to react quickly if necessary, and if you feel unsafe, it’s always a good idea to safely pull over or call authorities to report the dangerous driver. Prioritizing safety over confrontation is key in these situations.
Legal Rights and Steps to Take After an Accident
If you have been injured in a distracted driving accident, you have the right to pursue compensation for your injuries and other losses. It is crucial to:
- Understand Your Legal Rights: Knowing your rights can help you make informed decisions about your case.
- File a Personal Injury Lawsuit: A lawsuit can help you recover damages for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
- Consult an Experienced Lawyer: An attorney can handle negotiations with insurance companies and represent you in court if necessary.
Compensation for Distracted Driving Victims
Victims of distracted driving accidents may be entitled to various forms of compensation, including:
- Medical Expenses: Covers costs related to hospital bills, ongoing treatment, and rehabilitation.
- Lost Wages: Compensation for time missed from work due to injury.
- Pain and Suffering: Damages for physical pain and emotional distress.
- Property Damage: Reimbursement for repairs or replacement of your vehicle.
- Loss of Enjoyment of Life: Compensation for the impact on your quality of life.
In cases of fatal accidents, families may also seek compensation for funeral expenses and loss of companionship.
Which Age Group is Most Affected by Distracted Driving?
Distracted driving is a serious issue, and research shows that younger drivers, especially those in their teens and early twenties, are the most likely to be involved in accidents caused by distractions. This age group is particularly vulnerable due to their frequent use of smartphones and the constant desire to stay connected while driving. Whether it’s texting, checking social media, or answering calls, the distractions that come with smartphones significantly increase the risk of accidents. As a result, this demographic experiences higher rates of collisions linked to distracted driving compared to older age groups. The combination of inexperience behind the wheel and the temptation to engage with digital devices makes young drivers particularly susceptible to these types of crashes.
Why Choose Boesen Law?
At Boesen Law, our Denver distracted driving accident lawyers are committed to helping injured victims and their families get the justice they deserve. We have a proven track record of success in handling these types of cases and have recovered millions of dollars for our clients.
When you choose Boesen Law, you can expect:
- Free initial consultations
- Personalized legal strategies
- Dedicated representation
- Open and honest communication
Our team will fight to protect your rights and help you get the compensation you deserve. We understand that no amount of money can undo the trauma of a car accident, but we believe that you should not have to suffer financially for someone else’s mistakes.
Our Law Office
5675 DTC Blvd., Suite 250, Greenwood Village, CO 80111
Phone: 303-999-9999
Reach out to our law firm for a no-cost, no-obligation consultation today. Call our personal injury lawyers in the state of Colorado at (303) 999-9999 or contact us online.
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