Distracted driving transforms vehicles into dangerous weapons on Knoxville’s roads. When drivers choose to text, eat, or engage in other distracting behaviors behind the wheel, they put everyone at risk. If you have been injured by a distracted driver, you have the right to hold them accountable by pursuing an insurance claim or a personal injury lawsuit—but these cases can be more complex than they initially appear.
That’s where a Knoxville car accident lawyer can help. We have the expertise to navigate the intricacies of your case, gather essential evidence, and negotiate with insurance companies to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
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Types of Distracted Driving Behaviors in Tennessee
Three main types of distractions impair a driver’s ability to operate a vehicle safely: manual, visual, and cognitive. Manual distractions take hands off the wheel, visual distractions take eyes off the road, and cognitive distractions take minds off the task of driving. Many common behaviors combine multiple types of distractions, multiplying their danger.
When drivers engage in distracted driving, their reaction time slows dramatically, making accidents more likely and more severe. Common behaviors include:
- Texting while driving
- Eating or drinking
- Applying makeup
- Reaching for objects
- Programming GPS devices
- Adjusting audio controls
- Reading emails or messages
- Taking photos or videos
- Attending to children
- Talking to passengers
- Watching videos
- Using social media
- Handling pets
- Looking at roadside events
- Daydreaming
- Smoking or vaping
Your Options for Compensation After a Distracted Driving Collision
Tennessee operates under a fault-based system for auto accidents. This means injured parties can pursue compensation directly from the insurance company of the driver who caused the crash or through a personal injury lawsuit. These claims require proving the driver’s negligence and subsequent fault for the collision.
Distracted driving is a form of negligence, as it demonstrates a motorist’s failure to operate their vehicle safely. You can prove that this behavior occurred through various forms of evidence, such as cell phone records, surveillance footage, witness statements, and accident reconstruction data. Police reports noting distracted behavior, social media posts made around the time of the crash, and testimony from passengers can also help establish liability.
How a Distracted Driving Accident Attorney in Knoxville Can Fight for You
Every second you wait after a distracted driving accident makes it harder to gather the evidence needed to prove your case. In these situations, you need an attorney on your side who can take charge of the investigation and begin building your claim for compensation.
A Knoxville distracted driving accident lawyer can support your claim in several ways. First, they subpoena phone records, obtain surveillance footage from nearby businesses, and work with experts to demonstrate how distraction contributed to the crash. During the insurance process, they can handle all negotiations and communications with insurers, protecting your rights and advocating for your maximum settlement.
If your case goes to court, your lawyer will know how to handle the complex procedural requirements, deadlines, and paperwork that accompany a lawsuit. They will take care of all legal matters so that you can focus on receiving medical care and adjusting to your new normal following the collision.
Contact Us Today for a Free, Confidential Case Review
The Lawyers of Brown & Roberto understand the devastating impact these preventable accidents have on victims and their families. Let us put our experience and resources to work for you. Contact us today at (865) 691-2777 and schedule your free consultation with a Knoxville distracted driving accident attorney.