Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of serious auto accidents in New York, and throughout the U.S. According to 2020 data from the state Governor’s Traffic Safety Commission, the average number of crashes causing serious injury or death because of device use behind the wheel has been steadily increasing for the past five years. So, what are the dangers of distracted driving?
Review the facts about distracted driving and explore whether you qualify for legal compensation after this type of accident.
Dangers of driving distractions
Distracted driving takes attention from the road for up to the length of a football field. While device use is the most common distraction, other activities such as eating, navigating or conversing with passengers can also impair driver ability.
According to data from the National Highway and Traffic Safety Administration reported by the Federal Communications Commission, distracted driving resulted in 2,800 fatalities and more than 400,000 injuries in 2018 alone. Nearly 10% of U.S. traffic fatalities result from a texting driver.
Available legal compensation for injuries sustained because of negligence
If you or a loved one suffered serious accident injuries after a collision with a distracted driver, New York allows you to seek legal damages for medical bills, lost wages, and other related expenses. Although New York is a no-fault auto accident state, you can file a claim through the court rather than through your insurance company if you become disabled for at least 90 days, have limited use of a body system or function, have permanently limited use of a body member or organ, or suffered broken bones or notable disfigurement.
Statute of limitations for distracted driving accidents in New York
You have three years from the car accident date to file a personal injury lawsuit in New York. For more information, contact our Albany car accident attorneys.
