Distracted Driving

Distracted Driving Accidents in Utah

Salt Lake City Distracted Driving Accident Lawyers

Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of serious car accidents in Utah and across the U.S. In fact, thousands of crashes each year are linked to distracted driving car accidents, many involving texting, phone use, or other unsafe distractions. 

If you or a loved one has been injured, you need an experienced distracted driving attorney who understands how to hold negligent drivers accountable and recover the compensation you deserve. At Steele Adams Hosman, our team of skilled awyers fights for victims injured in crashes caused by careless and inattentive drivers.

CONTACT STEELE ADAMS HOSMAN TODAY AT (801) 816-3999 TO SPEAK TO ONE OF OUR SALT LAKE CITY DISTRACTED DRIVING ACCIDENT ATTORNEYS ABOUT YOUR LEGAL RIGHTS AND OPTIONS.

What Does Distracted Driving Mean?

Distracted driving refers to any activity that diverts a driver’s attention away from safely operating their vehicle. There are three main types of distractions:

  • Visual – taking your eyes off the road
  • Manual – taking your hands off the steering wheel 
  • Cognitive – taking your mind off driving

 

Texting is especially dangerous because it involves all three. Consider this: how long does the average text take your eyes off the road? About five seconds, long enough to travel the length of a football field at highway speed. That’s why experts say why distracted driving is so dangerous is simple: it dramatically increases the risk of devastating crashes.

distracted driving lawyer utah

Common Causes of Distracted Driving

Examples of distracted driving causes include:

  • Texting, emailing, or using social media
  • Adjusting the radio, GPS, or climate controls
  • Talking to passengers
  • Eating or drinking while driving
  • Rubbernecking at Salt Lake City traffic accidents
  • Grooming or applying makeup
  • Looking at scenery or billboards

Understanding these risks is key to learning how to avoid distracted driving and what is the best way to deal with a distracted driver.

Utah Texting and Driving Law

In 2017, the state of Utah enacted laws banning the use of cellphones and other handheld devices to send, receive, or view text messages while driving. Under Utah texting and driving law, texting while driving is a primary offense, meaning police can pull you over just for texting. 

The law also prohibits:

  • Typing on an electronic device while driving
  • Using a cellphone or another handheld device to access the internet while driving
  • Using any wireless communications device while driving if the driver is under the age of 18

 

Many clients ask us, “what is the penalty for texting and driving in Utah?”. Offenses may lead to fines, points on your license, and higher insurance costs.

  • How much is a distracted driving ticket? Fines vary, but can be several hundred dollars.
  • Does a texting and driving ticket affect insurance? Yes, even one ticket can raise your premiums.
  • How much does a texting while driving ticket increase auto insurance premiums? Industry studies show texting and driving insurance rates may climb anywhere from 20%–30%.

 

In serious cases, drivers can face felony charges, license suspension, and prison time. 

distracted driving car accident utah

Filing a Texting & Driving Accident Lawsuit

Victims of distracted driving have the right to pursue claims for damages, including medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering. 

The costs associated with distracted driving related crashes could include medical care, rehabilitation, lost wages, and long-term disability. That’s why working with experienced car accident attorneys matters.

Regardless of the cause, your first step is usually to file a claim with your own auto insurance provider. Under the state’s no-fault system, you can file a personal injury protection (PIP) claim and recover up to $3,000 for medical expenses and, in some cases, lost wages. This is true regardless of who was at fault for the accident.

However, PIP coverage is limited. If your medical expenses exceed $3,000, or if your injuries meet the state’s “serious injury” threshold, you could be entitled to go outside the no-fault system and file a claim against the person or party who caused the crash. This allows you to seek compensation for all of your damages, including both economic and non-economic losses.

When a person is killed in a crash or dies due to accident-related injuries, certain surviving family members can recover compensation in a wrongful death lawsuit against the at-fault party. In such cases, the death of the individual is considered grounds for going outside the no-fault system.

Why Choose Steele Adams Hosman?

If you or someone you love was injured by a distracted driver, you are likely going through a lot. At Steele Adams Hosman, we understand just how difficult it can be to get back on your feet. Our attorneys are here to answer your questions, address your concerns, and guide you through the legal process.

We offer free consultations and contingency fees, so there is absolutely no risk or obligation in speaking to a member of our team about your potential case. If we do not recover a settlement or verdict on your behalf, you do not pay us a dime. Based in Salt Lake City, our firm serves clients in Cottonwood HeightsOgdenSandy, West Jordan, West Valley, and all of the surrounding areas.

WE INVITE YOU TO GET IN TOUCH WITH US TODAY TO REQUEST YOUR COMPLIMENTARY CASE EVALUATION. CALL (801) 816-3999 OR CONTACT US ONLINE.

LET OUR FIRM FIGHT FOR YOU

At Steele Adams Hosman, we are committed to getting you the compensation you deserve after an injury. Call our team today for a free consultation with one of our attorneys. There is no fee unless we win your case!

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