Thousands of people feel the impact of distracted driving crashes across the country yearly. It is a significant cause of severe accidents, and lawmakers nationwide consider texting and driving a serious issue.
Even though laws prohibit motorists from using hand-held devices behind the wheel, it continues to cause collisions leading to life-threatening or fatal injuries and property damage. If a distracted motorist caused you harm, contact a lawyer experienced with texting while driving car accidents in Tacoma. A dedicated vehicle collision attorney could help you seek compensation for your losses.
Driving While Using an Electric Device is Illegal
Texting while driving is reckless, and countless severe accidents occur yearly due to distracted driving. Per Revised Code of Washington § 46.71.672, the law prohibits motorists from using any hand-held device while behind the wheel of an automobile. The statute considers sitting at a red light or in traffic as driving, and a driver could face fines and civil liability if their negligence causes injuries.
The Burden of Proof and the Preponderance of the Evidence
The burden of proof lies on a claimant, who must establish to the court that a defendant is responsible for the losses. According to the Washington Pattern Jury Instructions 21.01, a civil claim must prove through a preponderance of the evidence a defendant’s carelessness led to the cause of action. If the evidence persuades a jury of s defendant’s liability, a plaintiff’s case meets the legal requirements for the burden of proof.
The Statute of Limitations
There is a court-enforced time constraint on beginning legal action for injury claims. Under the Revised Code of Washington § 4.16.080, a claimant has three years from the crash to file a lawsuit. Failing to prepare and file a claim before the statute expires could mean losing the ability to recover compensation for setbacks. A knowledgeable attorney in Tacoma could answer questions on all applicable traffic and civil statutes after a texting while driving vehicle wreck.
For a free legal consultation with a Personal Injury Lawyer
Recovering Compensation for Damages in Texting While Driving Liability Claims
After proving the defendant is liable for damages in texting while driving lawsuits, a court could award compensation within two categories: economic and non-economic. Economic damages cover the out-of-pocket expenses. Non-economic damages are the non-monetary injuries a person faces after a car accident. An injured person could recover reimbursement for the following losses:
- The total cost of medical care and fees
- Loss of pay and future earning potential
- Home renovations
- Physical pain and suffering
- Losing the enjoyment of life
- Mental and emotional pain and anguish
The award amount will depend on the case specifics. A Tacoma lawyer seasoned in texting while driving car accidents could help collect the evidence needed to recover a fair settlement.
Tacoma Texting While DrivingLawyer Near Me 206-558-5555
Meet With a Practiced Attorney About Texting While Driving Car Accidents in Tacoma
A wide range of laws prohibit people from driving with distractions, including texting or using hand-held devices while behind the wheel. Despite the rules and regulations, drivers continue to text and drive, putting themselves and everyone around them in harm’s way.
If a careless driver was texting and caused you to sustain injuries, you could be eligible to hold them financially accountable in civil court. Call a lawyer skilled in handling texting while driving car accidents in Tacoma to learn more about your legal options.
We Are committed to winning and winning big for our clients