How Common Are Accidents Caused by Distracted Driving in Riverside County?

Key Takeaways

• Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of preventable crashes in Riverside County.
• Drivers can become distracted by phones, passengers, food, navigation systems, and other activities.
• People injured in distracted driving accidents may be able to recover compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.

Distracted driving car accidents in Riverside County can lead to serious injuries, expensive medical bills, lost income, and lasting emotional stress. When a driver takes their eyes, hands, or attention away from the road, even for a few seconds, the risk of a crash increases. People injured in these collisions may have the right to seek compensation from the at-fault driver for their losses.

What Is Distracted Driving?

Distracted driving occurs when a motorist focuses on something other than driving. Although cell phone use is one of the most common examples, distractions also include eating, adjusting vehicle controls, talking to passengers, and looking at a GPS device. Any activity that takes attention away from the road can increase the likelihood of a collision.

Why Are Distracted Driving Accidents So Dangerous?

A distracted driver may fail to notice traffic slowing ahead, pedestrians entering a crosswalk, or vehicles changing lanes. Because their reactions are delayed, accidents can happen before the driver takes corrective action. Although a distraction may last only a few seconds, that brief moment can lead to life-changing injuries.

Where Do Distracted Driving Accidents Happen in Riverside County?

Distracted driving accidents can occur anywhere, although busy roadways often see a higher number of them. In Riverside County, the hotspots are along Interstate 215, State Route 79, Hemet Valley Mall, and Florida Avenue in Hemet, which all experience heavy traffic throughout the day. As congestion increases, drivers have less time to react when someone is not paying attention to the road.

What Injuries Are Common in Distracted Driving Accidents?

The injuries suffered in these crashes range from minor to severe. Depending on the force of impact, people may experience:

• Whiplash
• Broken bones
• Head injuries
• Back and spinal injuries
• Internal injuries

Recovery can take weeks, months, or even longer, especially with serious injuries.

Why Is Distracted Driving a Growing Concern in Riverside County?

Riverside County’s growing population has led to heavier traffic on local roads, highways, and major intersections. Busy routes throughout Hemet and San Jacinto often experience steady vehicle congestion during much of the day. As traffic volumes increase, even a brief distraction can have serious consequences, placing drivers, passengers, cyclists, and pedestrians at greater risk of being involved in a crash.

What Evidence Can Help Prove Distracted Driving?

Our Hemet car accident lawyers gather, organize, and present evidence such as the following to determine liability and build solid cases:

• Police reports
• Witness statements
• Traffic camera footage
• Cell phone records
• Photographs from the accident scene

Information such as this may help show that a driver was distracted before the collision occurred.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I file a claim if a distracted driver hits me?

Yes. If another driver’s distraction caused the accident, you may be able to seek compensation for your injuries and financial losses.

What if the driver denies being distracted?

Evidence such as witness statements, phone records, photographs, and police reports can challenge what the other driver claims to have happened.

How long do I have to file a car accident claim in California?

In most cases, California gives injured people two years from the date of a car accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. However, different deadlines may apply in certain situations.

Hemet Car Accident Lawyers at Lerner, Moore, Silva, Cunningham & Rubel Will Hold a Distracted Driver Accountable for Your Damages

If you were injured by a distracted driver in Riverside County, contact the Hemet car accident lawyers at Lerner, Moore, Silva, Cunningham & Rubel. Our experienced legal team will investigate the cause of your accident and hold the distracted motorist accountable. Call us at 909-889-1131 or fill out our online contact form to schedule your free consultation. Our offices are located in Ontario and Victorville, California.