Riverside Distracted Driving Accident Lawyer

Distracted driving is a leading cause of preventable car accidents in Riverside. With drivers increasingly multi-tasking behind the wheel, the risk of serious crashes has grown.

Common Distractions While Driving

Distracted driving includes any activity that takes a driver’s eyes off the road, hands off the wheel, or mind off the task of driving. Some of the most common distractions include:

• Texting or using a phone: Reading or sending texts, browsing apps, or using social media while driving is one of the most dangerous distractions.
• Eating or drinking: Drivers who eat or drink behind the wheel often take one or both hands off the wheel and their attention off the road.
• Adjusting vehicle controls: Changing the radio, GPS, or climate settings.
• Personal grooming: Putting on makeup, brushing hair, or shaving.
• Talking to passengers: Engaging in animated conversations, distracting the driver from their surroundings.
• Other distractions: Reaching for items, reading, or watching videos.

Even a few seconds of distraction can lead to serious consequences when a vehicle is moving at high speeds.

California’s Distracted Driving Laws

Under Vehicle Code § 23123, drivers are prohibited from using handheld phones while driving. Hands-free use is allowed, but only if the device is mounted and operated with a single tap or swipe. Drivers under 18 face even stricter rules. Vehicle Code § 23124 bans all use of wireless devices while driving, including hands-free systems.

Violations of these laws can result in a $20 fine for the first offense and $50 for each additional violation, but more importantly, these violations can serve as strong evidence of negligence in an accident claim.

How Can I Prove the Other Driver Was Distracted?

Proving that the other driver was distracted requires collecting solid evidence to support your claim, such as the following:

• Police reports documenting the crash and any citations issued.
• Witness statements from people who saw the driver’s actions before the crash.
• Cell phone records that show texting, calling, or app use at the time of the accident.
• Traffic or dash cam footage, if available.
• Vehicle data stored on many newer vehicles on speed, braking, and steering input can suggest that the driver was not paying attention if there were sudden movements or a lack of response.
• Expert testimony, including accident reconstruction analysis, may be necessary in more complex cases.

Proving distraction can be challenging, but the right evidence can establish liability and strengthen your case.

Why You Need a Riverside Distracted Driving Accident Lawyer

Hiring a skilled Riverside distracted driving accident attorney is critical to protecting your rights after a distracted driving crash. Your Riverside distracted driving accident lawyer will:

• Investigate the crash and gather all available evidence
• Build a clear, well-documented claim proving the other driver’s fault
• Handle negotiations with insurance companies that may try to minimize your payout
• Calculate full damages, including medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, and future care costs
• Take your case to trial if the insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement

With a Riverside distracted driving accident attorney on your side, you do not have to deal with legal stress while recovering from your injuries.

Contact Our Riverside Distracted Driving Lawyer Today

If you were injured due to another driver’s careless or distracted behavior, call (951) 688-0006 or contact Hanson & Mouri online today for a free consultation. Our Riverside distracted driving accident lawyer is ready to explain your legal options and fight for the compensation you deserve.