Victims of distracted driving are protected by the legal process

Distracted driving is an increasingly common problem. Increases in cell phone use, texting while driving and other types of distracted driving lead to car accidents that can result in significant injuries and harm to victims. The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation reports that 11 percent of car accidents were caused by distracted driving. In addition, distracted driving-related car accidents led to 300 fatalities in Pennsylvania.

AAA reports that one in four drivers engage in distracted driving in Pennsylvania. Distracted driving includes a variety of behaviors and the most well known is texting while driving. Distracted driving can also include operating a GPS device or radio while driving; eating while driving; putting on makeup or engaging in other grooming activities while driving; reading while driving; interacting with passengers while driving; and attending to children, pets or other passengers while driving.

Distracted driving is considered negligence when bringing a claim for damages related to a distracted driving-related car accident. A criminal charge or citation can be used as evidence to establish negligence. It is illegal to text and drive in Pennsylvania. Victims of distracted driving-related car accidents should be aware that they may be able to bring a claim for damages against the distracted, or negligent, driver. The personal injury legal process provides important protections for victims of distracted driving.

A claim for damages against a distracted driver that negligently caused a car accident can help victims address the physical, financial and emotional costs of a distracted driving-related accident. Victims may be able to recover compensation for damages such as medical expenses, lost wages and the pain and suffering they suffered so they can focus the recovery process.