Seattle Distracted Driving Accident Lawyer

Distracted driving, along with speeding and impaired driving, is a leading cause of traffic accidents in Seattle. Distracted drivers have slower reaction times, making it difficult to respond to sudden changes in traffic conditions, such as a vehicle stopping suddenly or a pedestrian crossing the street. This delayed response increases the likelihood of collisions.

If you have been injured in an accident involving a distracted driver, it is important that you reach out to a Seattle car accident lawyer who can guide you through the legal process of filing a personal injury claim. To receive a free case consultation, contact the Seattle distracted driving accident lawyers at Brumley Law Firm. Call (833) 832-2727 to schedule yours today.

What is Distracted Driving?

Distracted driving refers to any activity that diverts attention away from driving. This includes:

  • Visual distractions: Taking your eyes off the road, such as looking at your phone or other objects inside or outside the vehicle.
  • Manual distractions: Taking your hands off the wheel, like texting, eating, or adjusting the radio.
  • Cognitive distractions: Taking your mind off driving, such as daydreaming or engaging in conversations.

The most common form of distracted driving is using a cell phone, either for texting or talking. However, other activities like using GPS, adjusting car controls, talking to passengers, and even personal grooming can also be classified as distractions.

Washington State enforces strict laws, including the “Hands-Free” law, which prohibits holding a phone while driving to combat these distractions.

seattle distracted driving accident attorney

How to Prove a Distracted Driving Case in Seattle

Proving a distracted driving accident typically involves gathering strong evidence that demonstrates the driver’s inattention at the time of the crash. Here are some key methods used to establish proof:

  • Police Reports: The police report filed at the scene is a critical piece of evidence. Officers often note if a driver appeared distracted based on their observations or statements made at the scene. If the distracted driver was cited for using a phone or violating traffic laws, this strengthens the case.
  • Eyewitness Testimony: Statements from passengers, pedestrians, or other drivers who saw the driver being distracted can provide direct evidence of distraction, like texting or looking away from the road.
  • Cell Phone Records: Mobile phone records can show whether a driver was texting or on a call at the time of the accident. Subpoenas are often required to obtain these records.
  • Traffic Camera or Dashcam Footage: Footage from traffic cameras, surveillance cameras, or dashboard cameras can capture the driver’s behavior leading up to the accident, such as swerving or not paying attention to the road.
  • Vehicle Data: Some cars have event data recorders, which can provide data on the driver’s speed, braking patterns, and movements prior to the accident. Sudden changes may indicate distraction.
  • Social Media and Apps: If the driver was using social media or an app (such as posting to Instagram or Facebook) during the time of the crash, timestamps on the posts can be used to show distraction.

Combining these types of evidence can help your Seattle distracted driving accident attorney build a strong case to prove that distracted driving was the cause of the accident.

Distracted Driving Accident Statistics in Seattle

In 2023, in the 1,536 distracted driving-related crashes in Seattle, injuries were categorized as follows:

  • Fatal crashes: 6
  • Suspected serious injuries: 47
  • Suspected minor injuries: 252
  • Possible injuries: 260
  • No apparent injuries: 971

This data highlights that while the majority of crashes (971) resulted in no apparent injuries, there were still significant numbers of minor (252) and serious (47) injuries, alongside a small but notable number of fatal incidents.

Contact a Seattle Distracted Driving Accident Lawyer

Drivers who are distracted are less likely to notice key elements of their surroundings, such as road signs, signals, pedestrians, and other vehicles. This lack of awareness contributes to unsafe driving decisions, like running red lights or failing to yield.

If you or a loved one has been impacted by a distracted driver accident in Washington, you deserve the best legal support. Contact Brumley Law for a free, no-obligation consultation with a Seattle distracted driving accident attorney to discuss your case. Our experienced team of Seattle injury lawyers is ready to help you navigate the legal process, ensuring you receive the compensation and justice you deserve. Call us today at (833) 832-2727 or complete our online form to get started. Don’t wait – let us help you take the first step toward recovery.