Distracted driving can endanger the lives of everyone on the road. Even if a driver only takes their eyes off the road for a few seconds, severe injuries are possible if a collision ensues. Unfortunately, the prevalence of cell phones and smartphones means that far too many people try to read and send texts while driving. If someone is found participating in such behavior, they may be held legally responsible for any damages caused by their carelessness.
If you suffered harm in a texting while driving car accident in Bridgeport, a seasoned attorney could help you pursue damages from the liable party. Contact Berkowitz Hanna today to determine if financial restitution is possible in your unique case.
Connecticut General Statutes §14-296aa prohibits drivers from participating in any behaviors that interfere with their ability to operate a vehicle safely. In practice, it is illegal for any driver in Bridgeport to talk, text, or use hand-held electronic communication devices while driving on any public road or highway. If the driver is under 18 years old, it is illegal for them to use any form of communication device whatsoever while driving, even if they are using it in hands-free mode.
This is important to note because, under state personal injury law, a person can be found legally negligent if they breach the duty of care owed to others while out on the road. This duty requires that drivers act reasonably and responsibly while operating a vehicle. Because all local drivers are obligated to obey traffic laws and pay attention to their surroundings while in motion, anyone who texts behind the wheel and causes a car accident in Bridgeport has breached this standard of care and may be found negligent.
Even though it may seem evident that another party’s negligence caused the collision, there is still a legal process that must be followed to prove this in court. Getting a copy of the police report from the scene of the accident is vital, as it could include important evidence such as a citation given to the at-fault driver for breaking the law by texting.
Other relevant evidence in texting while driving car accidents in Bridgeport claims include footage from stoplight and/or dashboard cameras, eyewitness testimonies, debris and photos from the accident scene, and cell phone records indicating when specific messages were sent and/or read. Assistance from legal counsel can be crucial to collecting, preserving, and incorporating critical information into a comprehensive claim.
Choosing to text behind the wheel is unlawful and dramatically increases the likelihood of a severe accident. Unfortunately, many residents forego the warnings and continue to use their phones while driving. If someone is tragically or fatally harmed due to such recklessness, the negligent driver may be held legally responsible for the accident.
Texting while driving car accidents in Bridgeport can serve as solid grounds for civil litigation, and guidance from a seasoned legal professional is crucial in pursuing such a claim effectively. Call Berkowitz Hanna today for a free initial consultation.
Berkowitz Hanna
