Experienced Legal Help for Distracted Driving Accidents in Augusta, GA
Distracted driving is a serious problem that leads to thousands of accidents every year, and Augusta, Georgia, is no exception. If you or a loved one has been injured in a crash caused by a distracted driver, you may be entitled to compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Victims need a skilled Augusta distracted driving accident lawyer on their side. At 1Georgia Personal Injury Lawyers, we are dedicated to helping clients get the justice they deserve. Our Augusta car accident lawyers are here to guide you through every step of the legal process.
What is Distracted Driving?
Distracted driving occurs when a driver’s attention is taken away from the road due to another activity. Safe driving requires full concentration, and even a momentary distraction can result in a serious accident. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that thousands of lives are lost each year due to distracted driving, making it one of the leading causes of car crashes.
Three main types of distractions contribute to accidents:
- Visual distractions take the driver’s eyes off the road. Examples include looking at a phone, adjusting the GPS, or checking a mirror for too long.
- Manual distractions cause drivers to take their hands off the wheel. These include activities like eating, reaching for something in the car, or adjusting the radio.
- Cognitive distractions occur when a driver’s mind is not focused on driving. This can happen when someone is deep in thought, talking to passengers, or stressed about personal matters.
Any distractions can increase the risk of an accident, especially when combined with high speeds or heavy traffic.
Common Causes of Distracted Driving Accidents in Augusta, GA
Distracted driving accidents happen for a variety of reasons, but some common causes in Augusta include:
- Texting and driving: One of the most dangerous forms of distracted driving, texting simultaneously takes a driver’s eyes, hands, and mind off the road. Georgia law prohibits texting while driving, yet many drivers still engage in this risky behavior.
- Phone use while driving: Even hands-free calls can be distracting, but many drivers continue to talk on their phones while behind the wheel.
- Eating and drinking: Many people eat meals or drink coffee while driving, which can take their hands off the wheel and cause a lapse in focus.
- Adjusting in-car controls: Changing the music, adjusting climate settings, or setting up navigation can lead to brief but dangerous distractions.
- Talking to passengers: While casual conversation is common in cars, deeply engaging discussions or arguments can take a driver’s mind off the road.
- Daydreaming: Not all distractions are physical. A driver lost in thought is just as dangerous as one looking at a phone.
- External distractions: Accidents, billboards, or interesting sights along the road can cause drivers to look away from the road, increasing the risk of a crash.
No matter the cause, if a distracted driver caused your accident, you have the right to pursue compensation for your injuries and damages.
Georgia’s Texting and Driving Law
Georgia has laws to reduce distracted driving accidents and hold negligent drivers accountable. The Georgia Hands-Free Law, enacted in 2018, prohibits drivers from holding or supporting a phone while driving. This means that texting, browsing the internet, or watching videos while driving is illegal. Drivers can use hands-free devices, but they must not engage in any action that requires them to hold their phones.
Violating this law can result in fines and points on a driver’s license. However, penalties for breaking the law are minor compared to the devastating consequences of a distracted driving accident. If a distracted driver caused your injuries, their violation of Georgia’s distracted driving law could serve as evidence in your case.
Why Hire an Augusta Distracted Driving Accident Lawyer?
A distracted driving accident can leave victims with serious injuries, mounting medical bills, and lost income. Our car accident attorneys are committed to helping you recover full compensation for your losses.
Gathering Evidence to Prove Fault
Proving that a driver was distracted can be challenging. Our legal team conducts thorough investigations by collecting key evidence such as:
- The police report detailing the accident
- Traffic camera or surveillance footage
- Cell phone records (to determine if the driver was texting or on a call)
- Witness statements from people who saw the accident happen
- Accident reconstruction reports from experts
- The at-fault driver’s social media activity (which may show they were using their phone at the time of the crash)
We build a strong case to prove the other driver’s negligence.
Negotiating with the Insurance Company
Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts or shift blame onto the victim. Our attorneys have years of experience negotiating with insurance adjusters and won’t let them take advantage of you.
We handle all communications with the insurer and fight for the maximum settlement possible. If the insurance company refuses to offer a fair amount, we are prepared to take your case to court.
Representing You in a Lawsuit
If negotiations do not result in a fair settlement, we are ready to file a lawsuit on your behalf. Our experienced trial attorneys will present your case in court, using all available evidence to prove the other driver’s negligence. We will fight for compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and any other damages resulting from the accident.
Compensation for Distracted Driving Accident Victims
If you have been injured in a distracted driving accident in Augusta, you may be entitled to various forms of compensation.
Medical Bills
Medical expenses often pile up quickly after an accident. These can include hospital stays, surgeries, rehabilitation, and ongoing treatment. Your Augusta distracted driving accident lawyer will work to ensure that all your medical costs are covered, both current and future.
Lost Wages and Lost Earning Capacity
If your injuries prevent you from working, you can claim lost wages for the time you missed. Additionally, if your ability to earn in the future is affected, you may seek compensation for lost earning capacity. Your attorney will help calculate these losses accurately.
Property Damage
Accidents often cause significant damage to your vehicle and personal property. You should not bear the financial burden of repairs or replacements. A skilled Augusta distracted driving accident attorney will advocate for full compensation for these damages.
Pain and Suffering
The emotional and physical toll of an accident can be profound. Pain and suffering damages account for the distress and discomfort you endure due to your injuries. Your lawyer will gather evidence to support your claim.
Punitive Damages
In cases where the distracted driver was grossly negligent or reckless, the court may award punitive damages to punish the at-fault driver and discourage similar behavior. Your attorney will assess whether your case meets the criteria for these additional damages.
How Long Do You Have to File a Distracted Driving Accident Claim in Georgia?
In Georgia, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury lawsuit after a car accident is generally two years from the accident. You must file your claim within this time frame, or you may lose your right to seek compensation.
However, certain circumstances may impact this deadline. For example, if the at-fault driver was a government employee or the victim was a minor, different time limits may apply.
It’s important to act quickly after a car crash with a distracted driver. Delays can lead to lost evidence, fading witness memories, and challenges proving fault. An Augusta distracted driving accident lawyer can help you understand the timeline and ensure all necessary paperwork is filed on time.
How Much Does an Augusta Distracted Driving Accident Attorney Cost?
At 1Georgia Personal Injury Lawyers, we understand that accident victims are already dealing with financial stress. That’s why we work on a contingency fee basis—meaning you pay nothing upfront. Our fees are only collected if we win your case. This allows you to pursue justice without worrying about out-of-pocket legal costs.
If we secure a settlement or verdict in your favor, our fee will be a percentage of the compensation you receive. This ensures that our interests are aligned with yours—we only get paid when you do.
Why Choose 1Georgia Personal Injury Lawyers?
Choosing the right Augusta distracted driving accident lawyer is crucial. At 1Georgia Personal Injury Lawyers, we understand the challenges ahead.
Our attorneys possess extensive experience in handling distracted driving cases. We know the ins and outs of Georgia laws and how they apply to your situation. We prioritize communication and transparency. From your initial consultation to the resolution of your case, we keep you informed every step of the way.
Our reputation is built on trust and results. We have successfully represented numerous clients, helping them navigate the legal landscape after their accidents. We are committed to fighting for your rights and ensuring those responsible are held accountable.
Choosing 1Georgia Personal Injury Lawyers means you have a team that is not only skilled but also genuinely cares about your well-being. We work tirelessly to alleviate your stress, allowing you to focus on recovery. Let us be your advocate in this challenging time.
Contact Us Today for a Free Case Review!
If you or a loved one has been injured in a distracted driving accident in Augusta, you don’t have to face the legal battle alone. The team at 1Georgia Personal Injury Lawyers is here to fight for your rights and help you recover the compensation you deserve. We offer free consultations and work on a contingency fee basis, which means you don’t pay unless we win your case.
Call 678-635-9939 today or contact us online to schedule your free consultation.
