Almost every state now has laws about texting while driving, but many drivers tempt fate by using their cell phones illegally. Distracted driving is now often the most common cause of traffic accidents. An accident with a texting driver can end up with you in hospital, your car towed away for expensive repairs and you wondering how you are going to pay all the bills. You may be able to file a personal injury claim against the at-fault driver if you can prove that negligence was the cause of your injuries. You should talk to a personal injury lawyer before filing a claim.
Medical Bills After an Accident With a Texting Driver
When a driver loses concentration because they are composing or reading a text message, they could wander off their lane, cross the center line, or hit the vehicle in front of them. If this is what has happened to you, you may suffer a range of injuries depending on the actual circumstances. You could face bills for medical services, such as:
- the cost of an ambulance if needed;
- a doctor’s visit and assessment;
- tests, such as x-rays and soft tissue scans;
- medication;
- hospital treatment including surgery;
- accommodation and food if a stay in hospital is necessary;
- extra equipment ranging from bandages, casts, crutches, wheelchairs etc.
Property Damage After an Accident With a Texting Driver
A texting driver is likely to slam straight into your vehicle or cause you to swerve to avoid the crash. Whatever the actual scenario, your own vehicle is likely to suffer some damage. At the worst, it could be beyond repair. It may need towing away. It may need replacement parts such as lights, fenders, windshield and mirrors. The bodywork may need scratches and dents repaired and spray paint applied. All this amounts to a considerable sum and you will be wondering who is going to pay the bills.
How a PI Claim Can Help Pay Bills After an Accident With a Texting Driver
If you can prove that the driver who hit you was at fault, e.g. you saw them using their cell phone, they hit you in the rear, or crossed the center line, you may have good grounds to file a personal injury claim with the driver’s insurer. A successful personal injury claim can help to pay all your medical bills and compensate for property damage and lost earnings. Most PI claims also include additional amounts such as compensation for the pain and suffering caused and punitive damages if the driver who hit you was excessively negligent.
Why Working With a Lawyer Makes Sense
Proving that a driver was texting at the time of a crash can be difficult. There may be evidence from the driver’s cell phone record. A PI lawyer may be able to obtain crucial evidence from a cell phone provider through a sub-poena. It is always advisable after an accident that was not your fault to seek advice and legal help from an experienced PI lawyer.
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