Glendale Distracted Driving Lawyers

Injured by a Distracted Motorist in Glendale, CA?

At Hartounian, APLC, we understand how serious distracted driving accidents can be, especially in a bustling city like Glendale, CA. With its busy streets, heavy traffic, and numerous distractions, drivers in Glendale face increased risks of accidents caused by inattention. If you or a loved one has been injured due to a distracted driver in Glendale, our experienced legal team is here to help. We fight for victims' rights and ensure they receive the compensation they deserve.

Contact us today at (818) 463-1917 for a free consultation with a Glendale distracted driving accident attorney.

What is a Distracted Driving Accident?

A distracted driving accident occurs when a driver diverts their attention from the road, leading to a collision. Distractions can be visual, manual, or cognitive, and they significantly increase the risk of accidents. In a fast-paced city like Glendale, where traffic congestion is common, even a momentary distraction can have catastrophic consequences.

Victims of distracted driving accidents may suffer from severe injuries, property damage, and emotional distress. If a distracted driver has harmed you, you have the right to seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.

Common Distractions on the Road

Distracted driving takes many forms. Some of the most common distractions that lead to accidents include:

• Cellphone Use: Texting, calling, or browsing on a smartphone takes a driver’s eyes off the road and hands off the wheel. Even hands-free devices can cause cognitive distractions that impair driving ability.
• Passengers: Conversations with passengers can divert attention from the road. Dealing with children or pets in the car can also contribute to distracted driving.
• Adjusting Radio or Climate Controls: Changing the radio station or adjusting the air conditioning requires a driver to take their eyes off the road. Modern infotainment systems with touchscreen controls can be particularly distracting.
• Eating and Drinking: Consuming food or beverages while driving requires hand-eye coordination, reducing a driver's focus. Spills or dropped items can cause sudden, dangerous distractions.
• Grooming: Applying makeup, brushing hair, or shaving while driving is highly dangerous and diverts focus from the road. Many accidents occur when drivers engage in personal grooming behind the wheel.
• Daydreaming or Cognitive Distractions: Mental distractions, such as being lost in thought, can be just as dangerous as physical distractions. Stress, fatigue, or strong emotions can impact a driver's ability to react promptly to road conditions.

Texting While Driving Laws in California

California has strict laws against texting while driving to prevent distracted driving accidents. Under the California Vehicle Code Section 23123.5, it is illegal for drivers to:

• Hold and use a cellphone while operating a vehicle.
• Read, write, or send text messages while driving.
• Use any handheld device unless it is mounted and operated hands-free.

Violators of these laws face fines, and repeat offenders may receive harsher penalties. These laws are in place to protect drivers, passengers, and pedestrians from the dangers of distracted driving.

Liability in a Distracted Driving Accident

If you have been injured in a distracted driving accident, proving liability is essential for securing compensation. Key elements in a distracted driving claim include:

1. Duty of Care: Every driver has a legal obligation to operate their vehicle safely.
2. Breach of Duty: When a driver engages in distracting activities, they violate this duty.
3. Causation: The distracted behavior must have directly led to the accident.
4. Damages: The victim must have suffered injuries or losses as a result of the accident.

A skilled Glendale distracted driving accident lawyer at Hartounian, APLC, can help gather evidence, such as phone records, witness statements, and surveillance footage, to prove negligence and hold the at-fault driver accountable.

Call (818) 463-1917 or contact us online today to discuss your case with our team.