Proving Drowsy Or Distracted Driving Was To Blame For A Car Accident In Pinellas County
When it comes to preventing car accidents in Pinellas, it is important for drivers to avoid the ‘Three D’s’: drowsy, distracted, and drunk driving. All are common causes of crashes and can leave other motorists suffering severe personal injuries. Unfortunately, proving a driver was fatigued or not paying attention can be a challenge. Our Seminole car accident attorney explains evidence that can help support your claim.
Drowsy and Distracted Car Accident Risks
Most people are aware of the dangers of drunk driving Florida. In addition to the serious harm you could cause others, there are also harsh penalties if you are caught. Distracted driving and drowsy driving are often overlooked, but also increase the risks of a crash and are a common factor in car accidents in Pinellas County.
Distracted Driving
Distracted driving involves engaging in any activity that causes you to take your eyes off the road, your hand off the wheel, and your mind off driving. In addition to texting and talking on cell phones, it includes taking pictures, checking emails or social media accounts, changing GPS settings, eating fast food, and even adjusting your appearance in rearview mirrors.
Drowsy Driving:
Drowsy driving involves being excessively tired while behind the wheel, which can cause the same types of impacts as being under the influence. The first week of September each year is designated as Drowsy Driving Prevention Week in Florida. According to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV), it is in memory of an eight-year-old boy killed by a motorist who was asleep behind the wheel.
Proving The Other Driver Was Drowsy or Distracted
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that drowsy and distracted driving claim the lives of more than 1,000 people each year while leaving tens of thousands of others suffering serious harm.
If you are involved in a crash and suspect the other driver was drowsy or distracted, you have the right to hold them liable for your medical bills, lost wages, property damages, and other costs. However, unlike drunk driving, there are no tests to prove the other driver was at fault. Evidence we can gather to support your claim includes:
- Police reports indicating the driver appeared tired or that there was a cell phone or other objects on the seat;
- Statements from the driver, their passengers, or any witnesses involved;
- Video surveillance footage from nearby businesses or traffic signals;
- Skid marks on the road, indicating they failed to respond;
- Evidence of sleep disorders or records pertaining to busy work or school schedules;
- Cell phone and app data, social media posts, or other evidence showing they were distracted at the time.
Request A Consultation With Our Pinellas County Car Accident Attorney
If you are injured due to a drowsy or distracted driver, the Reep Law Firm can help you gather the evidence needed to support a claim. To request a consultation with our experienced Seminole car accident attorney, call or contact us online today.
Sources:
flhsmv.gov/safety-center/driving-safety/drowsy-driving/
nhtsa.gov/risky-driving
