Distracted driving is a common cause of car accidents. Individuals who have been injured in a texting and driving wreck may have the opportunity to seek compensation for their damages. However, dealing with a car crash claim can be difficult without the help of a legal professional.
A seasoned car accident lawyer could help you file suit for any injuries you sustain in a distracted driving accident. Call the office today to learn more about how an attorney could support you after a Fort Mill texting while driving car accident.
Distracted Driving Laws in Fort Mill
State law prohibits texting on a cell phone, smartphone, or other electronic device while operating a motor vehicle. Under South Carolina Code of Laws §56-5-3890, texting while driving is a civil infraction punishable by a $25 fine.
Police officers can pull someone over solely for texting behind the wheel. An experienced attorney who focuses on texting while driving cases could cite these laws to prove liability in an injured party’s claim.
What Evidence Can Be Used to Prove Liability in a Texting While Driving Case?
Anyone who was texting while driving before a crash would almost certainly be the primarily liable party for any injuries or losses resulting from that accident. In many auto collision cases, a distracted driving citation from the officer who responded to the accident is sufficient to prove liability.
Other relevant evidence may include text message records, eyewitness testimony, and photos or videos from the scene of the crash. A lawyer in the area could help a plaintiff gather evidence to prove a third party was negligent in their texting while driving accident.
Recovering Monetary Damages in a Distracted Driving Claim
After an injured party has proved liability, they can seek compensation for damages. Attorneys working on distracted driving claims can help plaintiffs create settlement demands that cover both economic and non-economic losses.
What is the Difference Between Economic and Non-Economic Damages?
Economic damages may include medical bills, lost work income, loss of future earning potential, and costs of vehicle repair or replacement. When accidents cause serious or life-altering injuries, claimants often suffer emotional and personal losses.
These non-economic damages can include pain and suffering, loss of consortium, loss of enjoyment of life, and permanent disability or disfigurement. Retaining legal counsel could improve an individual’s chances of receiving the compensation they need to recover.
A Fort Mill Attorney Could Help After a Texting While Driving Car Accident
People who text and drive can cause particularly dangerous car accidents. On busy roads, the slightest lack of focus could cause a car to veer into oncoming traffic. Fortunately, those injured in distracted driving accidents have the right to hold the responsible parties accountable.
If you were injured by a negligent driver, contact a lawyer at Schiller & Hamilton as soon as possible. A legal professional from our team could guide you through your Fort Mill texting while driving car accident case. Call our office today to schedule a consultation and speak with an attorney about the best course of action for your case.