Texting While Driving Car Accidents in Colleyville
Everyone knows that texting and driving can be dangerous, yet a large portion of drivers choose to do it anyway. Sometimes, it is not even intentional—it is easy to get distracted by a notification flashing on your phone in the corner of your eye. The problem is that anything can happen in the blink of an eye, including getting into a car accident when you or another driver were texting while driving. There are legal consequences for texting and driving in most states.
When drivers do not pay attention to the road, they increase their chances of getting into a traffic collision. Every driver and passenger can suffer from someone else’s distractions on the road. After experiencing a crash, involved parties may face severe injuries and a mountain of unexpected bills. When you are involved in this type of wreck, do not hesitate to contact an attorney with experience handling texting while driving car accidents in Colleyville. A well-practiced auto collision lawyer could help you navigate the legal system while advocating for your rights.
Local Laws Regarding Texting While Driving
It is illegal to read, write, or send a text while driving in Texas, with a fine of up to $200 for anyone who violates the law. By law, drivers are prohibited from using wireless communication devices to send or receive messages while behind the wheel of a motor vehicle. Depending on the facts of the case, violations can result in fines, license suspension, or jail time. Consequences can be severe due to strict local law enforcement cracking down on drivers who text while they are on the road. It is important to hire a Colleyville lawyer who knows the applicable laws for car accidents resulting from texting while driving.
Local law extends to texting, using social media, or emailing while behind the wheel. Most people may not realize that the law includes drivers who are waiting at traffic lights or stop signs. The penalties can vary depending on the circumstances. There is a possible fine of up to $99 for a first offense. The fine increases to up to $200 for later offenses. Drivers may also face points on their driving record, which could lead to increased insurance rates, or license suspension or revocation may also be imposed. If the accident was serious, the consequences can be even more harsh. There can be criminal charges and jail time. An experienced attorney could answer any questions injured parties have about their legal rights following a car crash with a distracted driver.
Compensation for Injuries Sustained Due to a Texting Driver
A variety of injuries can result from car accidents involving inattentive drivers. Anyone can be affected, including drivers, pedestrians, and passengers. Some injuries can be minor, but others could be significant or even life-threatening. Some examples include:
- PTSD
- Whiplash
- Broken bones
- Concussions
- Head trauma
- Paralysis
- Permanent disability
There is no standard compensation for car crash injuries because every case has different factors. Thus, hiring a Colleyville attorney skilled in winning large payments for car accident cases should be a priority for anyone involved in a collision caused by texting and driving.
When a negligent driver causes a wreck, they can be held responsible for the injured party’s losses. Negligence exists when someone owes a duty of care to another person, such as the duty to drive safely to avoid injuring other drivers on the road. When drivers fail to uphold that duty of care, and the other party sustains injury solely from their action or inaction, they can meet the legal standard of negligence. In Texas, the courts follow a standard of comparative negligence, where an injured person can still recover compensation even if they are partially at fault for the collision. However, their percentage of liability must not be more than 50 percent. If an injured person is 51 percent liable or more, the court will not let them seek damages through a civil claim. A knowledgeable lawyer who is well-versed in cases involving texting while driving could help an injured person avoid a reduction in their damages award.
Reach Out to a Colleyville Texting While Driving Car Accident Lawyer Today
Many Texas drivers continue to engage with their phones instead of focusing on the road in front of them, even though they know texting while driving is dangerous. Long-term consequences can result from someone being distracted by their phone for just a few seconds. When you suffer due to someone else’s negligence, it can feel unjust and unfair. The right attorney will help you seek accountability and pursue the maximum compensation you are entitled to. The first step anyone should take after getting hurt in texting while driving car accidents in Colleyville is to get in touch with a local legal professional. Call today to schedule a free consultation and discuss your legal options.