Distracted driving involves any action that takes a driver’s focus away from driving. While taking a phone call, texting, or eating are some of the leading causes of distracted driving violations in California, other examples include adjusting the radio, grooming, or reaching for objects in the car. If you are involved in a distracted driving car accident in Stockton, reach out to a skilled car accident attorney from Valero Law Group for assistance pursuing a claim for compensation.
When Can Drivers Use Cell Phones?
California law prohibits the use of cell phones while driving unless the device is hands-free, except in the case of drivers under the age of 18 where all cell phone use is banned. Texting while driving is also prohibited, including texting while waiting at a stop light or stop sign. To avoid distracted driving violations, motorists should exit an active roadway before texting or reading from a cell phone, tablet, or laptop. If a Stockton driver causes a wreck due to breaking these distracted driving laws, they could be liable for all damages. Call our firm to learn more about proving liability for distracted driving accidents.
What Happens If a Distracted Driver Causes a Car Accident?
California is an at-fault state, requiring the injured parties to prove a driver’s negligence caused the accident that resulted in the injury. In the case of a distracted driving car accident in Stockton, the following documentation can help build a strong case:
- Police report
- Traffic citation
- Cell Phone records
- Witness statements
- Traffic camera footage
A distracted driving citation may be sufficient for the at-fault driver’s insurance company to settle a claim; however, they may still deny liability. An experienced car accident attorney can gather all required documentation and evidence, and negotiate with insurance carriers to ensure the best possible outcome.
What Compensation Is Available?
Anyone injured in a Stockton distracted driving car accident can seek compensation for their economic losses from the responsible party. Compensation covers immediate and future costs related to the injury. It may include medical treatment, hospital stays, lost wages, and reduced future earnings.
Injured parties may also seek compensation for pain and suffering caused by the accident. These noneconomic damages may include emotional distress resulting in depression, anxiety, or traumatic disorders. If injuries reduce the quality of life or cause cognitive changes, the injured party can seek additional damages.
Comparative Fault
Even if injured parties are partially at fault, they can seek compensation. California is a comparative fault state that determines each party’s degree of responsibility and reduces the injured party’s compensation by that percentage of fault. For example, if the distracted driver is 80% at fault and the injured party is 20%, their compensation will be reduced by 20%.
Experienced lawyers can help those involved in a distracted driving car accident navigate the complexities of establishing responsibility and pursuing compensation. Learn more about the potential value of a case by working with our team.
Contact Valero Law Group After a Distracted Driving Wreck in Stockton
Valero Law Group has a seasoned team of legal professionals to help clients seeking compensation for car accident injuries. People involved in distracted driving car accidents in Stockton should contact our office to discuss the best strategy for receiving the compensation they deserve.
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