Smartphones provide users with a handheld computer with endless information and communication ability. Unfortunately, while technology is helpful for many reasons, it has also caused texting while driving car accidents to skyrocket.
Texting drivers are as dangerous as those who operate their vehicles while under the influence. Therefore, you may be entitled to compensation to cover your losses if a texting driver strikes you. Call a hardworking vehicle collision lawyer today to discuss texting while driving car accidents in Houma and Terrebonne Parish.
How Texting Can Lead to Motor Vehicle Collisions
Texting behind the wheel is a significant issue and a leading cause of car crashes. Using a phone while operating a vehicle is a hazard for the negligent driver and all other motorists on the roadways.
Teenagers who text while driving are especially dangerous because of their inexperience. Therefore, most states enforce strict traffic laws to prevent teen motorists from using their phones while driving.
An attorney in Houma and Terrebonne Parish could help build texting while driving crash claims to hold careless parties responsible for their actions.
Collecting Compensation After a Crash with a Texting Motorist
Civil courts will hold texting motorists financially accountable for their reckless actions. However, these courts must consider many factors when calculating the award amount in cases involving motorists who were texting. For example, civil courts will consider relevant evidence, the extent of damages, and how the injuries will affect the plaintiff in the future. The award usually falls within economic and noneconomic damages and could cover the following:
- Healthcare costs, including ongoing medical care expenses
- Loss of salary and future earning potential
- Pain and suffering
- Losing the enjoyment of life
If a texting driver in the parish seat of Terrebonne causes a collision resulting in catastrophic injuries or fatalities, the total settlement amount could be significant.
Texting While Driving is Illegal and Violators Face Traffic Fines and Civil Penalties
Texting while driving is a significant cause of thousands of severe and fatal accidents countrywide every year. Therefore, most states have legislation prohibiting motorists from the action. For example, according to the Louisiana Revised Statutes § 32:300.5, no drivers in Louisiana can use wireless communication for reading, writing, or sending text messages while traveling on state roads and public highways.
Officers have the right to issue moving violations for texting while driving. The first citation for texting while driving is punishable by steep fines of up to $175, increasing by $500 for each subsequent traffic stop.
A lawyer in Terrebonne Parish and Houma experienced with texting while driving car crashes could investigate to collect evidence of the violation and prove liability for a claim. Proof of texting and driving when a collision occurs is vital for recovering compensation for damages.
Call a Skilled Attorney in Houma and Terrebonne Parish to Discuss Texting While Driving Car Accidents
Texting while driving is an irresponsible decision that puts everyone on the road at risk of injury. When drivers choose to text regardless of the dangers, they must pay for their negligence.
A lawyer knowledgeable about texting while driving car accidents in Houma and Terrebonne Parish could help you hold the reckless party financially accountable. Call today to schedule a consultation to begin preparing your claim.
