Seattle Cell Phone Accident Attorneys
Distracted driving is a serious problem in Washington. To help combat this issue, Washington legislators have passed a law that bans handheld cell phone use while driving. This means that drivers cannot talk on a handheld phone, send or receive text messages while driving. This restriction, unfortunately, does not prevent all drivers from behaving negligently. If you or a loved one has been injured as a result of a car accident caused by a distracted driver, please contact an experienced Seattle personal injury lawyer to obtain more information about pursing your legal rights.
Washington State Cell Phone Law
Because of the dangers of distracted driving, Washington has enacting laws restricting the use of cell phones while driving. Under RCW 46.61.667: "A person operating a moving motor vehicle while holding a wireless communications device to his or her ear is guilty of a traffic infraction."
There are a few exceptions to this rule. Motorists may use a wireless device in hands-free mode. Additionally, someone may drive while using the cell phone if they are reporting illegal activity or calling someone for help following an emergency.
Cell Phone Use While Driving
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that nationally, more than 85 percent of cell phone owners use their phones at least occasionally while driving, and more than 27 percent use their phones during half or more of their trips. Extensive research by NHTSA has proven that cell phone use does in fact increase the chances of a car accident.
Proving Fault in a Cell Phone Car Accident Case
If someone admits to using a cell phone at the time of a crash, the responding officials will put it in the police report. In some cases, a distracted driver may deny using a phone at the time of the collision. In such cases, eyewitness reports may be invaluable. It also may be possible to request the driver's phone records in order to prove it.
Rights of Injured Auto Accident Victims
Victims of Washington cell phone car accidents may pursue compensation for their losses by filing a personal injury claim. Damages that may be covered include hospital bills, time away from work, as well as past and future suffering. It is not always easy to hold an at-fault motorist accountable for his or her actions. It is common, in fact, for a driver to deny responsibility and for his or her insurance company to refuse payment. Injured victims can fight back with the assistance of a skilled Seattle personal injury attorney.
The Washington distracted driving car accident attorneys of Hardwick & Pendergast know how to hold distracted drivers accountable for their actions. We work with investigators to prove liability for a crash and we fight to protect the rights of our clients. If a distracted driver has injured you or a loved one, please do not hesitate to call our offices for a free consultation and a comprehensive case evaluation. Distracted drivers should be held accountable for the damages they cause. Call us today to find out how we can help.
