Distracted driving causes thousands of accidents every year. Whether it’s texting, eating, or adjusting the radio, taking your eyes off the road for even a few seconds can lead to serious crashes. If you or a loved one suffered injuries due to a distracted driver, you may have legal options under Illinois law.
Common types of distracted driving
Distractions come in many forms, but they all take attention away from safe driving. The most common types include:
- Visual distractions – Looking at a phone, GPS, or passengers
- Manual distractions – Eating, drinking, or reaching for objects
- Cognitive distractions – Daydreaming or being lost in thought
Texting while driving is especially dangerous because it involves all three types of distraction. In Illinois, using a handheld phone while driving is illegal in Illinois. Despite this law, many drivers still take the risk, putting others in danger.
How distracted driving leads to accidents
Even a brief distraction can cause a severe crash. A driver looking at their phone for five seconds while traveling at 55 mph covers the length of a football field without seeing the road. This delay in reaction time increases the likelihood of all kinds of accidents. These crashes often result in broken bones, traumatic brain injuries, and spinal cord damage. Injured parties may face high medical bills, lost wages, and long-term recovery challenges.
Proving liability in a distracted driving case
Holding a distracted driver accountable requires strong evidence. Common ways to prove distraction include:
- Cell phone records showing calls or texts at the time of the crash
- Witness statements about the driver’s behavior
- Traffic camera footage capturing the accident
- Police reports noting signs of distraction
Illinois follows a modified comparative negligence rule. If the other driver was at least 51% responsible for the crash, they can be held liable for damages.
What to do after a distracted driving accident
If a distracted driver caused your injuries, take these steps to protect your rights:
- Seek medical attention immediately
- Report the accident to the police
- Gather witness information and photos of the scene
- Avoid speaking to insurance adjusters without legal guidance
Distracted driving puts everyone on the road at risk. Knowing your legal rights can help you recover the compensation you deserve after an accident.