Springfield, MO Distracted Driver Accident Attorneys

Fighting For Distracted Driving Accident Victims in Missouri

In today’s busy world, cars have become spaces where drivers talk on the phone, text, email, search the internet, apply makeup, take selfies, and perform many other tasks. Far from multitasking, these distractions redirect the driver’s focus and take their hands off the wheel and eyes off the road.

During the more than 20 years our partners at Bishop & Hayes P.C., have been in practice, they have witnessed extraordinary advancements in technology and the resulting increase in distracted driving collisions. We recognize the devastation a distracted driver can impart on auto crash victims and their families, all due to one text or phone call.

Our attorneys vigorously advocate for victims’ rights to recover insurance compensation and to hold the negligent driver accountable in civil court. Your claim is personally handled by one of our partners, not an associate or a paralegal, so you are guaranteed to receive the experienced, knowledgeable representation you expect from your legal counsel.

Schedule your initial consultation by contacting us at (417) 785-3410 today to get started with our distracted driving accident attorney in Springfield.

Statistics For Distracted Driving

Distracted drivers killed 3,179 people and injured 431,000 people in 2014. Although most attention focuses on texting and talking on smartphones, distractions include any activity that diverts attention away from operating the vehicle.

These actions include: 

Texting While Driving Laws

Oklahoma, Kansas, and Arkansas have laws banning motorists from texting while driving. In addition, these states prohibit novice drivers from using a handheld device. Unfortunately, other drivers can continue legally talking on the phone instead of paying attention to the road. Only Missouri prohibits drivers 20 and younger from texting while driving and places no restrictions on phone use.

Although lawmakers have been slow to fully protect the public from distracted driving crashes, when an accident occurs, the distracting activity is powerful evidence of negligence.

Proving Distraction Caused the Crash

Our attorneys review the facts for telltale signs of distracted driving, like lane drift, swerving, and failing to apply the brakes. In some newer cars, we may have the advantage of electronic data showing the driver’s behavior immediately before the crash. We may subpoena phone records to research whether the driver transmitted a text or made a call right before impact.

Common Injuries in Distracted Driving Accidents

Some of the most common injuries include the following:

• Whiplash and Neck Injuries: Sudden impact could cause quick movement of the neck, leading to pain, stiffness, and mobility problems.
• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): Head trauma could lead to concussions, cognitive impairment, memory loss, and other long-term complications.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: Serious crashes could cause damage to the spine, resulting in partial or full paralysis.
• Broken Bones: The force of impact can fracture bones in the arms, legs, ribs, and other areas of the body.
• Internal Organ Damage: Internal bleeding and organ injuries can be life-threatening and demand prompt medical attention.
• Lacerations and Bruising: Cuts and deep wounds may result from shattered glass, metal debris, or forceful impact.
• Psychological Trauma: Victims often experience post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, and depression following a serious accident.

What Damages Could Be Recovered in a Distracted Driving Accident Claim?

Recoverable damages may include:

• Medical Expenses: Covers hospital bills, surgeries, medication, rehabilitation, and future medical costs.
• Lost Wages: Compensation for time away from work because of injuries, including loss of future earning capacity if the victim cannot return to work.
• Property Damage: Covers restoration or replacement costs for a damaged vehicle and other personal property.
• Pain and Suffering: Compensation for physical pain, emotional distress, and diminished quality of life.
• Loss of Consortium: If the accident impacts the victim’s relationship with a spouse or family members, additional compensation may be available.
• Wrongful Death Damages: If a distracted driving accident results in a fatality, surviving family members could pursue compensation for funeral costs, loss of financial support, and emotional suffering.

What is the Statute of Limitations for a Distracted Driving Accident Claim in Missouri?

Missouri law sets a strict deadline for filing a distracted driving accident claim. The statute of limitations for personal injury lawsuits in the state of Missouri is generally five years from the initial date of the accident. Failure to file within this timeframe could result in losing the right to seek compensation.

Taking immediate legal action is critical to preserving evidence, securing witness testimony, and building a strong case. The sooner the claims process begins, the better the chances of obtaining a favorable outcome.

Contact Our Distracted Driving Accident Attorney in Springfield Today

A distracted driver needlessly risks your safety, and you deserve compensation for your injuries. Discuss your claim at a free appointment with Bishop & Hayes. Because we handle claims on contingency, you do not pay lawyers’ fees until we recover for you. 

Our Springfield distracted driving accident lawyers are licensed in Missouri, Oklahoma, Kansas, and Arkansas and have offices in Springfield and Joplin, MO, and Miami, OK. Contact us today to learn more about your legal rights.