Driving While Distracted

Distracted driving is a growing problem on Maryland roads, especially in Prince George’s County. Drivers who split their attention between driving and other activities—such as eating, adjusting the radio, or using their phones—pose a serious threat to pedestrians and other motorists. These distractions can lead to devastating crashes, where pedestrians often suffer the most severe consequences.

If you or someone you know was hurt in a distracted driving accident, turn to Prince George’s distracted driving lawyers at Foran & Foran for help. Our experienced team will investigate the circumstances of your crash, determine fault, and fight for your right to compensation. We have 85 years of experience handling all types of motor vehicle accident cases, so you can rest assured that your case is in capable hands.

Distracted driving poses serious risks to pedestrians, particularly in areas with high foot traffic, like city streets and intersections. According to the Maryland Department of Transportation, 53,000 distracted driving crashes occurred yearly in the state from 2017 to 2021. These accidents are hazardous for pedestrians, who have minor protection against an impact with a vehicle. In Prince George's County, which accounts for a high concentration of pedestrian-involved crashes, distracted driving continues to be a leading cause of these accidents.

Pedestrians are most at risk when drivers take their eyes off the road for a few seconds. Common distractions that lead to accidents include:

• Smartphone use. Texting, browsing social media, or checking emails while driving are frequent distractions that take drivers' attention away from the road.
• In-vehicle technology. Drivers using in-car navigation systems, entertainment consoles, or adjusting settings while driving are likelier to miss pedestrians crossing streets.
• Conversations with passengers. Engaging in intense discussions with passengers, whether verbal or hands-free, can reduce a driver's focus on their surroundings.
• Eating and drinking: Consuming food or drinks while behind the wheel is another form of distracted driving that takes drivers' hands and attention away from the task.

Distracted driving accidents often result in serious injuries, particularly for pedestrians. Without the protection of a vehicle, pedestrians are highly vulnerable, and collisions with distracted drivers can lead to catastrophic injuries.

When distracted drivers hit pedestrians, the injuries sustained are often severe and life-changing. Pedestrians struck by vehicles commonly suffer from the following:

• Traumatic brain injuries (TBI),
• Spinal cord injuries,
• Fractures and broken bones,
• Internal injuries.

The consequences of these injuries can be long-lasting, leading to physical, emotional, and financial burdens for the victim. With the help of a dedicated Prince George's County distracted driving lawyer, victims can seek compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.

To hold a driver accountable for a distracted driving accident, proving negligence is essential. This process involves demonstrating that the driver failed to exercise reasonable care while operating their vehicle, resulting in the accident. In distracted driving cases, evidence of negligence may include:

• Cell phone records. Your attorney can subpoena the driver's phone records to show whether they were texting, calling, or using an app during the crash.
• Witness testimony. Bystanders or other drivers may have seen the distracted driver before the accident, providing critical testimony about their behavior.
• Traffic camera footage. In some areas, traffic cameras may capture the accident, offering clear evidence of whether the driver was paying attention to the road.
• Police reports. Law enforcement officers responding to the accident scene will typically file a report, noting if the driver was distracted or violating traffic laws.

Proving negligence in distracted driving accidents is crucial to obtaining compensation for your injuries. A Prince George's County distracted driving lawyer will gather all necessary evidence to build a strong case and advocate for the maximum compensation you deserve.

According to Maryland State Highway Administration data, pedestrian crashes involving distracted driving are particularly severe in Prince George's County, which has one of the highest concentrations of pedestrian-involved fatalities. A Prince George's distracted driving lawyer from Foran & Foran will work diligently to secure the total compensation you need to recover from your injuries and move forward with your life.

Pedestrian accidents often lead to severe injuries and long recoveries. If you’ve been injured in a pedestrian accident, Foran & Foran, P.A. is here to guide you through the legal process and secure the compensation you need. Schedule a free consultation today by calling 301-441-2022 or using our secure online contact form.