Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of car accidents across the country—and Florida is no exception. Despite laws banning texting while driving, thousands of crashes each year are linked to drivers whose attention wasn’t on the road. If you’ve been injured because another driver was distracted, you may be entitled to compensation.
What Counts as Distracted Driving?
Distracted driving goes beyond texting. Any activity that takes a driver’s eyes off the road, hands off the wheel, or mind off driving can be considered a distraction. Examples include:
- Texting, calling, or using apps
- Eating or drinking
- Adjusting GPS or music systems
- Talking to passengers
- Grooming (applying makeup, shaving, etc.)
- Reaching for objects inside the vehicle
Even a few seconds of inattention can have catastrophic consequences, especially at high speeds.
The Consequences of Distracted Driving
Accidents caused by distracted driving often result in:
- Rear-end collisions
- Head-on crashes due to lane drifting
- Pedestrian and cyclist accidents
- Multi-car pileups
Victims may suffer severe injuries such as:
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal cord damage
- Whiplash and soft tissue injuries
- Broken bones
- Wrongful death
Florida’s Distracted Driving Laws
Florida law makes texting while driving a primary offense, meaning law enforcement can stop and ticket drivers for it. However, cell phone use in certain hands-free zones (like school zones or construction sites) can result in more serious penalties.
Despite these laws, proving distracted driving in court requires strong evidence, which may include:
- Phone records
- Witness statements
- Police reports
- Surveillance or traffic camera footage
Filing an Injury Claim for Distracted Driving Accidents
Victims of distracted driving accidents may pursue compensation for:
- Medical expenses (current and future)
- Lost income and reduced earning ability
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Rehabilitation costs
- Property damage
Because Florida is a no-fault state, your PIP coverage will handle initial expenses. But if your injuries meet the “serious injury threshold,” you can file a claim against the at-fault driver.
Steps to Take After a Distracted Driving Accident
- Call 911 and report the accident.
- Document the scene with photos and videos.
- Ask witnesses if they saw the other driver using their phone or being inattentive.
- Seek immediate medical treatment.
- Contact a personal injury attorney before dealing with insurance adjusters.
How Darfoor Law Firm Can Help
Distracted driving cases can be complex because proving the driver was inattentive isn’t always easy. At Darfoor Law, we investigate thoroughly, obtaining phone records, interviewing witnesses, and working with accident reconstruction experts when necessary. Our mission is to hold negligent drivers accountable and fight for the maximum compensation our clients deserve.
If you were injured in a distracted driving accident, don’t let the insurance company downplay your claim. Contact Darfoor Law today for a free consultation.
The post Distracted Driving and Injury Claims: What Florida Victims Need to Know appeared first on The Injury Advocates.
