Distracted Driving Accidents: Common Causes and Consequences

Distracted driving is a significant safety concern on California roads. A moment spent looking at a text message, adjusting a navigation system, eating, or reaching for an object can take a driver's attention away from surrounding traffic. Even a brief distraction may reduce the amount of time a driver has to recognize a hazard and respond appropriately. Understanding the different forms of distraction and how California law addresses driver behavior may help drivers make safer decisions and understand their legal options after an accident.

Understanding Distracted Driving

Driving distractions are often divided into three categories. These usually include the following. 

• Visual distractions that can cause drivers to take their eyes off the road. Looking at a text message, checking a navigation screen, or turning to look at something inside the vehicle are common examples. 
• Manual distractions that involve taking one or both hands away from controlling the vehicle. Eating, reaching for an item, adjusting controls, or handling a phone may fall into this category. 
• Cognitive distractions occur when a driver's thoughts are focused on something other than driving. An intense conversation, emotional stress, or concentrating on a phone call can interfere with awareness of changing road conditions.

Using Cell Phones while Driving 

Cell phone use is one of the most common forms of distracted driving. Drivers may become distracted while reading or sending messages, entering information into navigation applications, scrolling through social media, or making calls. A driver who needs to send a message, enter detailed navigation instructions, or interact with a phone can reduce risk by pulling over at a safe location before using the device.

Causes of Distracted Driving Accidents

Driving requires drivers to always observe their surroundings and respond to changing conditions. Traffic can stop suddenly, pedestrians may enter a crosswalk, vehicles may change lanes, and road conditions can change with little warning. When a driver is distracted, the driver may not recognize these conditions quickly enough to react.

Distracted driving may contribute to rear-end collisions when a driver fails to notice slowing traffic. It may also cause intersection accidents if a driver does not notice a traffic signal or stop sign. Lane-departure and sideswipe collisions can occur when a driver's attention is distracted, and the vehicle begins drifting from its lane. Pedestrians, bicyclists, and motorcyclists may also be especially vulnerable when a distracted driver fails to notice them. It is also important to note that everyday activities inside a vehicle can interfere with a driver's ability to respond to traffic conditions. Common examples may include, but are not limited to, the following. 

• Eating or drinking while driving
• Adjusting music or vehicle controls
• Entering directions into a GPS or navigation system
• Talking with passengers
• Reaching into the back seat
• Attending to children or pets
• Searching for an object inside the car

What Kinds of Injuries Can Occur?

The injuries resulting from a distracted driving collision can vary considerably depending on vehicle speed, the type of impact, use of safety restraints, and other circumstances. Possible injuries may include, but are not limited to, the following. 

• Whiplash and other neck injuries
• Back and spinal injuries
• Head injuries and traumatic brain injuries
• Broken or fractured bones
• Shoulder and knee injuries
• Cuts and bruising
• Soft-tissue injuries
• Internal injuries

Some injuries may not be immediately visible after a collision. Individuals experiencing pain or other concerning symptoms following an accident may consider seeking appropriate medical evaluation.

Who is Responsible?

California negligence principles may apply when determining responsibility for a motor vehicle accident. Usually, an injured person pursuing a negligence claim must establish the applicable legal elements based on the facts and evidence surrounding the collision. In a distracted driving case, evidence may include the following. 

• Photographs or video footage 
• Witness statements
• Police reports 
• Medical documentation 

Understanding Comparative Negligence Laws 

More than one person may potentially contribute to a collision. California follows a comparative negligence system, meaning responsibility may be distributed among multiple individuals based on their overall percentage of fault in the initial accident. For example, one driver may have been distracted while another may have been speeding or engaged in another unsafe driving behavior. The effect of those actions depends on the evidence and circumstances of the specific accident. Since fault can be distributed, preserving available evidence after an accident can be important.

Potential Consequences of a Distracted Driving Accident

Depending on the circumstances, an injured person may face medical treatment, rehabilitation, time away from work, vehicle repairs, or other expenses. In a personal injury claim, potentially recoverable damages depend on the facts of the case, applicable insurance coverage, the nature of the injuries, evidence of losses, and California law. No specific result or amount of recovery can be guaranteed because distracted driving may have occurred.

Seeking Legal Guidance and Support

After an accident, individuals should first address immediate safety and medical concerns. When appropriate, contacting law enforcement may create an official record of the incident. In addition, individuals may also wish to seek legal guidance and support from a qualified attorney. This is important as it can minimize the additional challenges that may occur after an accident. 

The Legal Team at KAASS LAW

KAASS LAW may help individuals understand their rights and legal options when dealing with the consequences of a distracted driving accident. Our legal team may be able to review the facts of your case, speak to insurance companies, and help you understand your rights moving forward. Call KAASS LAW today to learn more.