In today’s world, technology is everywhere. It’s become such a huge part of our lives that it’s hard to escape its influence. But with this convenience comes a cost. Distracted driving is one of the biggest problems which could result in serious accidents and injuries. In such cases, no compensation can truly compensate for the pain of a hurt loved one.
Yet, sometimes, seeking damages often remains the only recourse. This is particularly true in Okaloosa County, the state’s third-worst county for distracted driving crashes.
A distracted driver on Florida’s roads
When someone drives distracted, they aren’t fully paying attention to the road which could pose safety risks for passengers, drivers and pedestrians. There are three ways a driver can get distracted: by looking away (visual), by not using their hands to control the car (manual) or by letting their mind wander (cognitive). Each one is risky. And they can lead to accidents that hurt people you care about. Should a distracted driver cause an accident, the victim can usually sue for damages. This could cover costs like:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Damage to your car or personal belongings
- Noneconomic damages, such as pain and suffering resulting from physical pain
- Other expenses related to the accident
Undeniably, it takes a significant amount of emotional bravery to stand up and fight for an injured loved one. However, it’s crucial to note that the outcome of a personal injury case largely depends on whether you can prove that the driver was genuinely distracted during the accident.
Too preoccupied to drive safely
You’ll need to gather some critical pieces of evidence to show that the other driver was too busy with something else to drive safely, causing the accident. This might include:
- Eyewitness testimony
- Police report
- Phone records
- Video footage
Distracted driving is a real issue in Florida, resulting in more than 56,000 crashes in Florida alone in 2022. It’s heartbreaking to see a loved one hurt because someone else couldn’t keep their eyes on the road. If you’re ever in this unfortunate situation, you do have rights. Collecting the right evidence can help you seek damages and hopefully bring some relief during a tough time.