Texting While Driving Car Accidents in Springfield

Cell phones have changed the way we communicate. You no longer need to search for a telephone while traveling. Instead, you can call using a hands-free device or text from the comfort of your parked vehicle. However, some drivers choose to text while driving, and according to the Virginia Tech Transportation Institute, they are 23.2 times more likely to be involved in an accident or near-accident.

Texting while driving car accidents in Springfield often cause serious injuries, and the person at fault should pay for their negligence. A car accident attorney from our firm will fight to get you the compensation you are entitled to, either from the offending driver’s insurance company or from a jury.

Does Texting Fall Under the Umbrella of Distracted Driving?

Distracted driving is divided into three categories: visual, cognitive, and manual. Visual distractions involve the driver taking their eyes off the road; cognitive distractions keep them from thinking about driving; and manual distractions involve a motorist removing their hands from the wheel. Texting while driving involves all three and is, therefore, likely to cause car crashes in Springfield.

In Virginia, under normal circumstances, a driver may not hold a cell phone while operating a motor vehicle, but may use a hands-free device to talk. If they are lawfully parked and stopped , they can text. An exception to the law is if they are reporting an emergency.

Penalties for Texting While Driving

Any distracted driving warrants a fine of $125 for a first offense and $250 for subsequent offenses and those occurring in road work zones. The penalties mount if the police identify that a driver was distracted, for example, by texting, emailing, or holding a phone to talk, and caused a serious vehicle accident in Springfield.

Our attorneys gather and study evidence to build a strong case, proving that the law entitles you to compensation from the distracted motorist. We carefully determine the value of your case and seek the compensation you deserve.

Insurance Settlements vs. Negligence Lawsuits

Virginia is an at-fault state, meaning that when a motorist causes an accident, they are responsible for the damages. You will seek compensation from the offending driver’s insurance company to pay for your injuries and property damage. However, insurance companies are known for pressuring you to accept the first settlement they offer, which often does not even cover your medical bills.

Insurance companies prioritize their shareholders’ interests over yours, but our attorneys have a proven track record of successfully negotiating settlements for clients. When dealing with dishonest insurers, we refuse to accept their bad faith and instead file negligence lawsuits to ensure you receive fair compensation.

Compensation covers your economic damages for medical care and lost wages, as well as more subjective losses, such as pain and suffering, emotional trauma, and loss of consortium. Let us advocate for you. We keep you updated and informed of our progress as we build your claim that a driver distracted by texting injured you in a Springfield car accident.

Call a Springfield Attorney After a Car Crash Caused by Texting While Driving

Our attorneys are adept at negotiating with insurance companies that push you for a settlement, and we routinely file negligence lawsuits to seek damages awards. If you sustained injuries in a car crash caused by a distracted driver, we will protect your rights and fight for you in the courtroom.

We will treat you with respect, and you will always feel welcome. Schedule an appointment to learn more about texting while driving car accidents in Springfield, share your story, and move toward justice.