Victoria Distracted Driving Accident Attorney

Fighting For Those Who Have Been injured By Distracted Drivers in Texas

At Cole, Cole, Easley, & Sciba, P.C., we understand that accidents caused by distracted driving can have life-altering consequences. If you or a loved one has been involved in a distracted driving accident in Victoria, Texas, our team of experienced attorneys is here to help you seek justice and recover the compensation you deserve. With a strong commitment to our clients and a proven track record of success, we are the trusted choice for distracted driving accident cases in Victoria, TX.

Call Cole, Cole, Easley, & Sciba, P.C. today at (361) 678-3233 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with our distracted driving accident lawyer in Victoria.

What is Considered Distracted Driving in Texas?

Distracted driving is a dangerous behavior that diverts a driver's attention away from the primary task of operating a vehicle. In Texas, as in many other states, distracted driving includes a wide range of activities that take a driver's focus off the road. Some common forms of distracted driving include:

• Texting or using a cell phone while driving: This is one of the most common and hazardous forms of distracted driving. Reading or sending text messages and making phone calls can significantly impair a driver's ability to react to traffic conditions.
• Eating and drinking: Activities like eating, drinking, or manipulating a GPS device can divert a driver's attention from the road, leading to accidents.
• Talking to passengers: Engaging in conversations with passengers, especially intense or emotional ones, can be a distraction.
• Grooming: Fixing hair, applying makeup, or even adjusting clothing while driving can be dangerous.
• Using in-car entertainment systems: Operating infotainment systems, such as adjusting the radio or navigation, can take a driver's focus away from driving.
• Reaching for objects: Trying to reach for objects within the vehicle can cause a momentary lapse in attention.

Common Injuries in Distracted Driving Accidents

Some of the most common injuries include:

• Whiplash and Neck Injuries: Sudden stops or collisions can cause the head and neck to jerk violently, leading to whiplash or other serious neck injuries.
• Back and Spinal Cord Injuries: The impact of a distracted driving accident can cause significant damage to the back and spinal cord, possibly resulting in chronic pain, mobility issues, or even paralysis.
• Head and Brain Injuries: Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) are a common result of car accidents, especially when a driver or passenger's head strikes a hard surface inside the vehicle.
• Broken Bones and Fractures: The force of a collision can easily break bones, including arms, legs, ribs, and more. These injuries often require extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation.
• Internal Injuries: Harm to internal organs can occur in a serious accident, sometimes leading to life-threatening conditions that require immediate medical attention.
• Cuts and Lacerations: Broken glass, metal, and other debris can cause deep cuts and lacerations, which could need stitches or other medical interventions.

Texas' Distracted Driving Laws

In Texas, distracted driving is a serious offense. Here are some key points regarding distracted driving laws in Texas:

• Texting while driving is banned: It is illegal to read, write, or send electronic messages (including text messages) while operating a motor vehicle unless the vehicle is stopped.
• Handheld cellphone ban: Texas law prohibits the use of handheld cellphones by drivers in school zones and by drivers under the age of 18. Additionally, local ordinances may impose additional restrictions.
• No texting in school zones: In school zones, all drivers are prohibited from using handheld devices to text, read, or write while driving.

Please note that laws and regulations may change over time, so it's essential to consult with an attorney for the most up-to-date information.

What Damages Could Be Recovered in a Distracted Driving Accident Claim?

Potential damages may include:

Economic Damages

• Medical Expenses: This includes all costs related to medical treatment, such as hospital stays, surgeries, medications, physical therapy, and any future medical fees that are related to your injury.
• Lost Wages: If your injuries have caused you to miss work, you can claim compensation for lost wages. This also includes any future loss of earning capacity if your injuries stop you from returning to work or require a lower-paying job.
• Property Damage: You can recover the costs of repairing or replacing your vehicle and any other personal property damaged in the accident.

Non-Economic Damages

• Pain and Suffering: Compensation for physical pain and emotional suffering endured as a result of the accident.
• Emotional Distress: If the accident has caused substantial emotional trauma, you may be entitled to damages for psychological impacts, including anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
• Loss of Consortium: If your injuries have adversely impacted your relationship with your spouse, you could be qualified to compensation for loss of companionship and support.
• Punitive Damages: In instances where the at-fault driver's behavior was incredibly reckless or egregious, punitive damages might be awarded. These damages are intended to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar conduct in the future.