Distracted driving has become one of the fastest-growing public safety crises in California and across the nation. With smartphones, navigation systems, and in-car technology now standard in most vehicles, drivers face constant temptations that take their attention off the road. Unfortunately, this dangerous behavior results in thousands of preventable injuries and fatalities each year.
At Hillstone Law, our San Jose car accident attorneys are committed to holding negligent drivers accountable. If you or a loved one has been injured in a distracted driving accident, we will fight for the compensation you need to recover.
The Facts About Distracted Driving
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that more than 3,000 people were killed in 2017 alone due to distracted driving. In California, the Office of Traffic Safety found that nearly 60% of drivers reported being hit or nearly hit by a driver using a phone.
Young drivers are at an especially high risk. A 2016 study revealed that drivers between the ages of 16 and 24 were more likely to use handheld devices while driving than any other age group. When paired with inexperience behind the wheel, this increases the chances of catastrophic accidents.
While California law prohibits handheld device use while driving, many drivers still choose to ignore the law putting themselves and others in danger. In cases where distracted driving causes injury, negligent drivers may face liability, traffic penalties, or even criminal charges.
How Drivers Can Prevent Distractions
Every driver has a responsibility to reduce distractions and keep the roads safe. Some best practices include:
- Remove the temptation: Keep your phone in the backseat or trunk, or use “Do Not Disturb While Driving” features to silence notifications.
- Set your GPS before driving: Program your route before you start moving to avoid fumbling with navigation while on the road.
- Establish family rules: Set an example for young drivers never text or scroll while driving, and hold each other accountable.
- Stay organized: Secure loose items and keep the car free of clutter that could roll or shift while driving.
- Pull over when necessary: Stop in a safe location if you need to check your phone, adjust cargo, or tend to children or pets.
- Rely on passengers: Let passengers handle music, climate control, or navigation tasks so you can focus on the road.
- Set work boundaries: Inform your employer that you cannot respond to messages while driving. Most companies prefer safety over immediate responses.
Why Victims of Distracted Driving Need Legal Help
Insurance companies are not on your side after an accident. Their goal is to minimize payouts not to ensure you are fully compensated. A distracted driving accident can result in significant damages, including:
- Medical expenses and future care costs
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
- Vehicle repair or replacement
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of enjoyment of life
At Hillstone Law, our skilled car accident attorneys gather evidence, work with experts, and negotiate aggressively to make sure you receive the compensation you deserve.
Call Hillstone Law for a Free Consultation
If you’ve been injured in a distracted driving accident, don’t face the insurance companies alone. The San Jose car accident lawyers at Hillstone Law are here to fight for your rights and help you recover physically, emotionally, and financially.
