Springfield Distracted Driving Accident Lawyer
Distracted driving is a leading cause of car accidents in Springfield, IL, contributing to countless injuries and fatalities each year. With the rise of smartphones and other in-car technologies, drivers are increasingly taking their attention away from the road, leading to dangerous and sometimes deadly collisions. Understanding the risks associated with distracted driving, where these accidents are most likely to occur, and what to do if you’re involved in one can make all the difference in protecting your health and legal rights. Patel Law, PC is dedicated to helping victims of Springfield distracted driving accidents secure the compensation they deserve.
Common Locations for Distracted Driving Accidents in Springfield, IL
Distracted driving accidents can happen anywhere, but certain locations in Springfield are more prone to these types of collisions due to high traffic volumes, complicated intersections, and the presence of distractions such as businesses and signage. Common locations for distracted driving accidents include:
- Interstate 55 (I-55): As one of the busiest highways passing through Springfield, I-55 is a frequent site of distracted driving accidents, particularly during rush hours when drivers are more likely to check their phones or become distracted by GPS devices.
- Veterans Parkway: Known for its heavy traffic, especially near commercial areas like the White Oaks Mall, Veterans Parkway sees a high number of rear-end collisions caused by drivers who are texting or otherwise distracted.
- Dirksen Parkway: With numerous stores, restaurants, and other businesses lining this road, Dirksen Parkway is a hotspot for accidents caused by drivers distracted by the bustling environment or by in-car technologies.
- Downtown Springfield: The downtown area, particularly around the Capitol Complex and 6th Street, is rife with distractions such as pedestrians, cyclists, and complex traffic signals, leading to frequent accidents.
- Stevenson Drive: This road experiences heavy commuter traffic, and its intersections, like the one at MacArthur Boulevard, are common sites for accidents caused by drivers who are not fully focused on the road.
What to Do After a Car Accident
Being involved in a car accident caused by distracted driving can be a traumatic experience. Taking the right steps afterward can help ensure your safety and protect your legal rights:
- Check for Injuries: Your first priority should be to check yourself and others for injuries. Call 911 immediately if anyone is hurt.
- Move to Safety: If your vehicle is drivable, move it out of traffic to a safe location. Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers.
- Call the Police: Even if the accident seems minor, it’s important to have a police report on record, especially if distracted driving was involved.
- Exchange Information: Obtain the names, contact information, insurance details, and license plate numbers of all involved drivers. If possible, also gather contact information from any witnesses who saw the accident.
- Document the Scene: Use your phone to take pictures of the accident scene, including vehicle damage, road conditions, traffic signals, and any visible injuries. These photos can serve as crucial evidence in your claim.
- Seek Medical Attention: Even if you don’t feel injured immediately, it’s important to see a doctor as some injuries may not manifest right away. Keep all medical records related to the accident.
- Contact an Attorney: Before speaking with insurance companies, consult with an experienced car accident lawyer at Patel Law, PC to ensure your rights are protected and that you receive fair compensation.
Common Injuries from Distracted Driving Accidents
Distracted driving accidents can result in a wide range of injuries, some of which may have long-term effects on your health and quality of life. Common injuries include:
- Whiplash: This neck injury is common in rear-end collisions and occurs when the head is suddenly jolted backward and forward, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility.
- Head Injuries: Concussions, traumatic brain injuries (TBI), and other head injuries can result from the impact of the collision or from hitting the steering wheel, dashboard, or windows.
- Spinal Injuries: The force of a collision can cause herniated discs, fractured vertebrae, or even spinal cord damage, leading to chronic pain or paralysis.
- Broken Bones: Fractures are common in distracted driving accidents, particularly in the arms, legs, ribs, and collarbone, and often require extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation.
- Soft Tissue Injuries: Sprains, strains, and contusions can occur in the muscles, tendons, and ligaments, causing pain, swelling, and limited range of motion.
- Internal Injuries: Blunt force trauma from a collision can cause internal bleeding, organ damage, and other life-threatening conditions that require immediate medical attention.
Reach Out to Springfield Distracted Driving Lawyers at Patel Law, PC
At Patel Law, PC, we understand the devastating impact that a distracted driving accident can have on your life. Our experienced personal injury attorneys are committed to helping accident victims in Springfield, IL, navigate the complex legal process and obtain the compensation they need to recover. Here’s how we can assist:
- Comprehensive Case Evaluation: We provide a thorough assessment of your case, helping you understand your legal options and the potential for recovering damages.
- Investigation and Evidence Gathering: Our team will conduct a detailed investigation into the accident, gathering evidence such as police reports, witness statements, and any available surveillance footage to build a strong case on your behalf.
- Negotiation with Insurance Companies: We handle all communications with insurance companies, ensuring that your claim is fairly evaluated and that you receive the maximum compensation possible.
- Aggressive Legal Representation: If the insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement, we are prepared to take your case to court and fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.
- Support and Guidance: Throughout the legal process, we provide compassionate and personalized support, keeping you informed every step of the way and addressing any concerns you may have.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a distracted driving accident in Springfield, IL, don’t face the legal challenges alone. Contact Patel Law, PC today to schedule a consultation and learn how we can help you secure the compensation you need to move forward.