Many car accidents are preventable, but there are too many irresponsible drivers who are distracted while behind the wheel. A recent study by the Virginia Tech Transportation Institute found that 80 percent of all crashes and 65 percent of near crashes were a direct result of some driver distraction. If you have been injured by a distracted driver, Tucker Griffin Barnes P.C. is ready to help. For more than 30 years, we have helped accident victims recover substantial reimbursement for their injuries. With offices in Charlottesville and three other Virginia locations, we are determined to win for you.
The first rule of driving has always been to keep your eyes and mind on the road. But today, vehicles are loaded with distractions and too many drivers simply don’t have the necessary discipline to behave safely. The leading sources of distraction for drivers include:
Giving in to distraction is like driving with a blindfold on, and too often the results are tragic.
Like many other states, Virginia has enacted laws to discourage distracted driving. On January 1, 2020, a new cellphone law went into effect prohibiting the use of hand-held devices while driving. The fine for a first offense is $125, and goes up to $250 for a second offense or if a driver is holding a phone in a construction zone. Exceptions to the law include:
It’s important to note that even when a drivers’ hands are free, their minds can be occupied by the conversation, so cell phone use can be a factor in an accident even if no law is broken.
Distracted driving is a clear example of negligence. Victims of accidents caused by distracted drivers are eligible for full personal injury compensation for their losses, which can include:
As your determined advocates, we take seriously our responsibility to secure the highest level of compensation possible given the facts of your case and the pertinent laws.
Tucker Griffin Barnes P.C. represents victims of distracted driver accidents throughout the Commonwealth. To schedule a free consultation, call us at 434-973-7474 or contact us online. We have four offices conveniently located in Charlottesville, Palmyra, Harrisonburg and Staunton.