Distracted driving makes up a significant amount of serious, and even fatal, car accidents in the state of Florida. Read on to discover how driving while distracted might lead to an accident and how a seasoned Pasco County, Florida car accident lawyer at Wendy Doyle-Palumbo, Esq. can help you in this situation.

What are examples of distracted driving?

Though texting while driving is the most popular example of distracted driving, there are many other ways in which a driver can be unfocused while behind the wheel. Other examples include the following:

  • A driver is eating or drinking.
  • A driver is smoking.
  • A driver is grooming himself or herself in the mirror.
  • A driver is fixating on the rearview mirror.
  • A driver is fixating on a billboard or something on the side of the road.
  • A driver is adjusting the radio or climate control dials.
  • A driver is reaching for an item in the glove compartment.
  • A driver is navigating a GPS.
  • A driver is talking over the phone.
  • A driver has earphones in.
  • A driver has a pet on their lap or in the front seat.
  • A driver has disruptive children in the back seats.

How does driving while distracted lead to an accident?

Driving while distracted means that you do not have your complete attention on navigating your vehicle or on the road.

Say, for instance, that you are texting while driving. This means that your eyes are off the road, so you are less likely to respond to a traffic signal or sign, a hazardous road condition, a driver in a neighboring lane, or otherwise outside stimuli. This also means that one or both of your hands are off the wheeling, so you are less likely to be in control of steering your vehicle.

For these reasons, injury accidents, and even fatal accidents, due to distracted driving occur far too often in the state of Florida. If you or a loved one has been involved in a Hudson truck accident, it’s crucial to seek legal assistance promptly. Contacting a skilled Hudson truck accident lawyer can help you navigate the complexities of personal injury claims and pursue the compensation you deserve.

What should I do in the event of an accident?

If a distracted driver caused you to incur serious injuries and damages in a car accident, then you may be eligible to file a personal injury claim against them.

You must collect all necessary evidence and bring your claim forward before Florida’s statute of limitations approaches. That is, the deadline for your personal injury claim will likely be four years from the date your incident occurred. If you do not come forward before this date, then you will be permanently barred from suing. Meaning, you will not be able to hold the negligent party accountable for their actions, let alone recover your damages.

So, we recommend that you contact a skilled Pasco County, Florida auto accident lawyer as soon as possible. Rest assured, we will help you meet this deadline. Call us today.