Although laws have been implemented to cut down on Northern Virginia distracted driving, over 1,000 are injured and nearly nine people are still killed every day. The damage distracted driving accidents cause can be extensive and costly, impacting both property and the physical well-being of victims. If you or a loved one has been injured by a distracted driver, speak to a highly experienced distracted driving accident lawyer in Virginia at the personal injury law firm of Koonz McKenney Johnson & DePaolis LLP. Contact us today to set up a free consultation to discuss your case.
Why Choose Koonz McKenney Johnson & DePaolis LLP?
- Our lawyers have been highly successful in holding distracted drivers accountable for their dangerous behavior for over 38 years.
- We are deeply involved in improving the lives of people in our community.
- No legal fees unless we win your case.
- Over the years we have collected over $1 billion in compensation for our clients.
Common Causes of Distracted Driving Accidents in Northern Virginia
Distracted driving is defined as any activity that diverts a driver’s attention away from driving, the most common causes for car accidents include:
- Talking on the phone (handheld or hands-free)
- Texting while driving
- Talking to passengers
- Eating or drinking
- Adjusting the radio
- Interacting with your GPS system
- Daydreaming
- Putting on makeup
When driving, it is important for the driver to focus solely on the road to ensure the safety of themselves and those around them.
Distracted Driving Accident Statistics in Fairfax
- There were 3,450 people killed in motor vehicle crashes involving distracted drivers in 2016.
- Of all fatal crashes in 2016, 9% were reported as distraction-affected crashes.
- Of all drivers that were involved in fatal crashes in 2016, 6% were distracted at the time of the crash.
- Drivers aged 15 to 19 years old that were involved in fatal crashes, 9% were distracted in 2016.
- Pedestrians and bicyclists killed in distraction-affected crashes in 2016 amounted to 562.
- The most recent injury data states that 391,000 people were injured in distracted driving accidents in 2015.
- Texting while driving is one of the most dangerous distractions, as reading or sending a text takes your attention from the road for up to 5 seconds. When traveling at 55 mph, that would be like driving with your eyes closed for the length of an entire football field.
Proving Negligence in a Distracted Driving Accident in Northern Virginia
If there are witnesses, clear evidence from traffic cameras, or phone records confirming that a driver was distracted, then proving negligence in a distracted driving case can be straightforward. If not, it may be more difficult, but negligence must be proven by establishing the following four facts:
Duty
The driver violated their duty of care to other drivers to drive responsibly.
Breach
The driver breached their duty of care by being distracted while driving at the time of the accident.
Causation
The breach of duty directly resulted in damages.
Damage
Actual losses were suffered, such as injuries and financial losses.
Why You Need a Highly Skilled Lawyer in Northern Virginia
A thorough investigation will likely be required in order to validate your distracted driving claim. Lawyers who have years of experience proving driver negligence will have the resources that are necessary to do so. The following will be collected or completed on your behalf, so that you may focus on your recovery:
- Driver statements and possible admissions
- Cell phone records
- Traffic surveillance video
- Witness statements
- Police reports
- Hire accident reconstruction experts
- All dealings and negotiations with insurance companies
- Represent you in court if necessary
Our Northern Virginia Distracted Driving Attorneys Are Ready to Help
Call the law firm of Koonz McKenney Johnson & DePaolis LLP today and speak to a lawyer with extensive distracted driving accident case knowledge. We will guide you through every step of the complex litigation process. Schedule a free consultation today.