Distracted driving has become one of the biggest safety issues on our roads today. With so many people using smartphones and other in-car technologies in their cars, drivers are more tempted than ever to take their eyes off the road. Distracted driving is responsible for thousands of car accidents and fatalities every year, increasing the risk of all kinds of accidents, including head-on collisions, which are some of the most severe.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a head-on collision due to distracted driving, seeking help from a skilled, local personal injury lawyer is essential for achieving justice and obtaining the financial resources you will need for recovery.
The Dangers of Distracted Driving
Distracted driving refers to any activity that diverts attention from driving. This can include using a phone, eating and drinking, talking to passengers, or adjusting the stereo, entertainment, or navigation system. These distractions reduce a driver’s situational awareness, reaction time, and ability to make quick decisions, significantly increasing the risk of accidents. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), in 2021 alone, 3,522 people were killed in motor vehicle crashes involving distracted drivers.
Head-On Collisions Caused by Distracted Driving
Head-on collisions, in particular, often result from distracted driving. When a driver’s attention is sidetracked, they may drift into oncoming traffic without realizing it, leading to catastrophic crashes. These accidents typically occur at high speeds, resulting in severe injuries or fatalities. The force of a head-on collision can lead to traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, broken bones, and internal injuries, all of which require extensive medical treatment and long-term rehabilitation. Thousands of people are killed in head-on collisions each year. According to data from the NHTSA, head-on collisions were responsible for almost 11 percent of all fatal motor vehicle accidents in 2021, resulting in an estimated 4,295 deaths that year.
How a Personal Injury Lawyer Can Help After a Head-On Collision Caused by Distracted Driving
In the aftermath of a head-on collision caused by distracted driving, victims may face overwhelming physical, emotional, and financial challenges. A skilled personal injury attorney can help navigate the complex legal landscape, ensuring that victims receive the compensation they deserve.
One of the primary roles of a personal injury lawyer is to establish liability. In cases of distracted driving, proving that the other driver was at fault can be crucial. An experienced attorney will gather evidence such as phone records, witness statements, traffic camera footage, and accident reconstruction reports to build a strong case. This evidence can demonstrate that the driver was distracted at the time of the collision, which is critical for securing compensation.
Distracted Driving Cause of Fatal Crash in Whatcom County
As reported by whatcomnews.com, an 87-year-old Burlington woman died after a two-vehicle head-on-crash on Lawrence Road (SR9) north of the Mount Baker Highway (SR542) on Wednesday, July 17. According to a Washington State Patrol (WSP) press memo issued the following day, a 2003 Chevrolet Express van was driving southbound on Lawrence Road when it crossed the centerline and struck a 2013 Toyota Corolla hatchback head on. The 29-year-old driver of the Chevrolet was not injured in the accident but both occupants of the Toyota, a man and woman in their 80s from Burlington, were transported by aid crews to PeaceHealth St. Joseph Medical Center in Bellingham. The passenger was declared deceased at the hospital.
All occupants in both vehicles were determined to have been wearing their seatbelts and WSP identified the cause of the crash as distracted driving.
Distracted driving is a significant contributor to head-on collisions, causing devastating injuries and losses. Understanding the dangers and taking steps to avoid distractions while driving is crucial for all road users. However, when accidents do occur, a personal injury lawyer can be an invaluable ally. By establishing liability, negotiating with insurance companies, and providing comprehensive support, they help victims secure the compensation needed to recover and move forward.
Contact a Car Accident Personal Injury Attorney
A car accident lawyer can help you recover a full and fair settlement for the injuries you sustained in a car accident with no up-front costs to you. We know the sneaky strategies used by insurance companies to get injured people to agree to settlements far below what they are worth. Our clients typically end up with a settlement or jury award that is five to ten times larger than they could have negotiated on their own. We have been representing people injured in Whatcom County, Skagit County, Island County and Snohomish County since 1979. Contact the experienced and hard-working personal injury lawyers at Tario & Associates, P.S. in Mount Vernon, WA today for a FREE consultation!
