Distracted driving is a significant cause of car accidents in Baton Rouge. It causes fatalities and leaving countless victims with serious injuries every year. Whether it’s texting, eating, or changing the music, even a brief distraction can have long-lasting consequences.
Working with an experienced attorney is essential to securing fair compensation if you’ve been injured in a distracted driving accident. Our Baton Rouge distracted driving lawyers at Dudley DeBosier are here to help. Contact us today for a free consultation.
What Constitutes Distracted Driving in Louisiana?
Distracted driving occurs when a driver’s attention is diverted from the task of driving. There are three types of distractions:
- Manual distractions: When a driver takes their hands off the wheel, such as to text, eat, or adjust the radio.
- Visual distractions: When a driver looks away from the road to read a text or check a GPS.
- Cognitive distractions: When a driver’s mind is focused on daydreaming or having a deep conversation and not focused on driving.
In Baton Rouge, distracted driving is a serious issue. Statistics show the number of crashes caused by drivers not paying full attention to the road is rising.
Common Causes of Distracted Driving Accidents in Baton Rouge
Drivers in Baton Rouge engage in the following common distractions that lead to serious accidents:
- Smartphone use and texting: The most dangerous forms of distraction, requiring the driver’s visual, manual, and cognitive attention.
- Adjusting the radio or GPS: Focusing on devices of any kind (even the ones that help navigate) instead of the road can quickly lead to an accident.
- Eating or drinking while driving: Taking a hand off the wheel to eat or drink can lead to a lack of control over the vehicle.
- Passenger interactions: Getting lost in conversation with passengers, especially those in the backseat, can significantly distract a driver.
These distractions are preventable, yet they remain a leading cause of accidents across Louisiana. So many victims suffer needlessly because someone took their focus off their one and only job: driving safely.
Louisiana’s Distracted Driving Laws
Louisiana law prohibits texting while driving and places explicit restrictions on cell phone use for novice drivers and those under age 17. In Baton Rouge, breaking these laws can lead to fines and other penalties, with repeat offenders experiencing even harsher penalties and steeper fines.
When a driver is proven to have violated distracted driving laws, it can help establish liability and contribute to a favorable outcome in a personal injury case.
Typical Injuries from Distracted Driving Accidents
Victims of distracted driving accidents in Baton Rouge often suffer from serious physical injuries, such as:
- Head injuries: Concussions and traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) are common and can lead to long-term cognitive issues.
- Spinal injuries: Damage to the spine can result in paralysis or limited mobility.
- Fractures and broken bones: Collisions often result in significant breaks and fractures of bones — some requiring surgery and ongoing rehabilitation.
In addition to physical injuries, victims frequently endure emotional and psychological harm from the accident. Post-traumatic stress, anxiety, and depression can affect a victim’s quality of life indefinitely.
Establishing Fault in a Distracted Driving Case
Proving that a driver was distracted at the time of an accident is crucial for any successful injury claim. Some key evidence may include:
- Police reports: These may contain details about the driver’s behavior and any citations for distracted driving.
- Witness testimony: Passengers or bystanders may have observed the driver engaging in distracting behaviors.
- Phone records: These records provide indisputable evidence that a driver was texting or using their phone during the accident.
At Dudley DeBosier, our team works diligently to collect all evidence and build a strong case to prove the other driver’s negligence.
Damages You May Be Entitled To Receive
Victims of distracted driving accidents may seek various types of compensation, including:
- Economic damages: These cover medical expenses, lost wages, and property damage related to the accident.
- Non-economic damages: Victims can seek compensation for pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life.
- Punitive damages: In cases where the driver’s behavior was especially reckless, punitive damages may be awarded to punish the at-fault party and prevent future behavior.
An experienced attorney will make sure that all damages are strongly considered and pursued.
Why Hire Dudley DeBosier for Your Distracted Driving Case?
Dudley DeBosier Injury Lawyers has extensive experience handling distracted driving cases in Baton Rouge. We provide personalized, client-focused service and pride ourselves on our successful track record.
Our No Fee Guarantee® ensures that you won’t pay unless we win your case, giving you the peace of mind you deserve during the legal process.
Get Help from Our Baton Rouge Distracted Driving Lawyers Today
If you’ve been injured in a distracted driving accident in Baton Rouge, don’t wait to seek legal help. Contact Dudley DeBosier today for a free consultation. Our experienced team of lawyers is ready to fight for the compensation you deserve.
