Tulsa Distracted Driving Accident Attorneys
Fighting For Victims Of Distracted Driving in Oklahoma
Distracted driving is a serious issue, causing countless accidents and injuries every year. At Brewster & De Angelis, our Tulsa distracted driving accident attorneys are dedicated to helping victims seek justice and recover the compensation they deserve.
Call Brewster & De Angelis today at (918) 742-2021 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with our distracted driving accident lawyers in Tulsa.
What is Distracted Driving?
In Oklahoma, distracted driving is defined as any activity that diverts attention from driving.
Distractions can be categorized into three main types:
- Visual Distractions: Taking your eyes off the road, even for a moment, can lead to accidents. This includes activities like texting, looking at GPS devices, or reading.
- Manual Distractions: Any activity that takes your hands off the steering wheel is a manual distraction. This may include eating, adjusting the radio, or reaching for items within the vehicle.
- Cognitive Distractions: When a driver’s mind is not focused on driving, it can lead to cognitive distractions. Daydreaming, talking on the phone, or engaging in deep conversations can fall into this category.
These actions can divert a driver’s attention and lead to serious accidents.
Oklahoma’s Distracted Driving Laws
Oklahoma law prohibits drivers from using a handheld electronic device to compose, send, or read electronic text messages while driving. Violation of this law can result in fines and points on your driver’s license.
Common Causes of Distracted Driving Accidents
Distracted driving is a leading cause of car accidents in Tulsa and throughout the United States. Despite widespread awareness of the dangers, many drivers continue to engage in behaviors that take their attention away from the road. Common causes of distracted driving accidents could include:
- Texting and Driving: Sending or reading texts while driving is highly hazardous and significantly increases the risk of a collision. Even a brief moment of distraction can have catastrophic consequences.
- Using a Cell Phone: Talking on the phone, browsing the internet, or using apps while driving can impair a driver’s ability to react to changing road conditions and hazards.
- Eating and Drinking: While eating or drinking while driving may seem harmless, it can divert a driver’s attention away from the road and delay their reaction time in an emergency.
- Adjusting Controls: Manipulating the radio, GPS, or climate controls while driving can take a driver’s hands off the wheel and their eyes off the road, increasing the likelihood of an accident.
- Daydreaming: Allowing one’s mind to wander while behind the wheel can be just as treacherous as other forms of distraction. Inattentive drivers may fail to notice important traffic signals, signs, or other vehicles until it’s too late to avoid a collision.
Common Injuries in Distracted Driving Accidents
Distracted driving poses serious risks on the road, leading to a range of injuries that can significantly impact victims’ lives. At Brewster & De Angelis in Tulsa, Oklahoma, our attorneys are well-versed in the aftermath of distracted driving accidents and are dedicated to helping victims pursue compensation for their injuries.
- Whiplash and Neck Injuries: The sudden impact from distracted driving accidents can cause rapid back-and-forth movement, resulting in whiplash and neck injuries. These injuries can lead to pain, stiffness, and long-term discomfort.
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): Head injuries are common in car accidents, and distracted driving incidents are no exception. Traumatic brain injuries, ranging from concussions to severe trauma, can have lasting effects on cognitive functions and overall well-being.
- Spinal Cord Injuries: Severe accidents may cause damage to the spinal cord, leading to paralysis or loss of motor function. These life-altering injuries often require extensive medical care and rehabilitation.
- Broken Bones and Fractures: The impact of a distracted driving collision can result in broken bones and fractures. Victims may suffer injuries to limbs, ribs, or other areas, requiring immediate medical attention and lengthy recovery periods.
- Soft Tissue Injuries: Soft tissues, including muscles, ligaments, and tendons, can be strained or torn during an accident. These injuries may not be immediately apparent but can cause ongoing pain and limitations in mobility.
- Psychological Trauma: Distracted driving accidents can leave victims with emotional and psychological trauma, such as anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Addressing these aspects of recovery is crucial for overall well-being.
- Internal Injuries: The force of a collision may cause internal injuries, including damage to organs such as the liver, spleen, or lungs. Internal injuries may not be evident immediately, emphasizing the importance of thorough medical examinations.
What Damages Could Be Recovered in a Distracted Driving Accident Claim?
Damages may include:
- Medical Expenses: This could include the cost of emergency medical treatment, hospitalization, surgery, rehabilitation, medication, and ongoing medical care related to your injuries.
- Lost Wages: If your injuries prevent you from working, you may be able to recover compensation for lost wages and lost earning capacity.
- Pain and Suffering: Compensation may be available for the physical pain and emotional suffering you’ve tolerated as a result of the accident and your injuries.
- Property Damage: You could be entitled to reimbursement for restoring or replacing your vehicle and any personal property damaged in the accident.
- Loss of Consortium: If your injuries have affected your relationship with your spouse or partner, they may be able to pursue compensation for the loss of companionship, affection, and support.
- Punitive Damages: In cases involving particularly egregious conduct, such as drunk or reckless driving, punitive damages could be awarded to discipline the at-fault party and discourage similar manner in the future.
Contact Our Distracted Driving Accident Lawyers in Tulsa Today
Our experienced attorneys can help you by:
- Investigating the accident thoroughly to gather all necessary evidence
- Proving the other driver was distracted at the time of the accident
- Negotiating with insurance companies on your behalf
- Representing you in court, if necessary
We understand the complexities of distracted driving cases and will fight to hold the negligent driver accountable. At Brewster & De Angelis, we have a proven track record of success in handling distracted driving cases. Our team is committed to seeking the maximum compensation for our clients, and we will not hesitate to take your case to trial if necessary. If you or a loved one has been injured in a distracted driving accident, don’t face it alone.
Contact Brewster & De Angelis at (918) 742-2021 for a consultation. Our attorneys are ready to stand by your side.