Tampa Cell Phone Car Accident Lawyer
These days, most of us would never think of leaving the house without our smartphone. These handheld computers are more than phones. They practically run our entire lives.
Cell phones also create an enormous distraction when trying to safely operate a motor vehicle. Indeed, cell phone distraction is a leading cause of preventable motor vehicle accidents here in Florida. If you have been injured in such a crash, you may be entitled to seek compensation against the driver who was too busy looking at their phone to pay attention to the road. The Tampa cell phone car accident lawyer at Anderson & Anderson can review your accident, advise you of your rights, and represent you in taking legal action.
What You Need to Know About Cell Phones and Driving in Florida
Unlike many states, Florida does not outright ban the use of cell phones while driving. State law does forbid texting while driving, as well as using your hands to operate a cell phone while traveling in designated school or construction zones. But merely using a cell phone to talk to someone while driving is generally not considered a traffic violation.
Just because something is not illegal, however, does not mean it cannot be considered negligence. When someone is injured in a car accident, they do not have to prove the responsible driver broke the law. They only need to show the driver’s conduct was negligent or reckless. And a driver distracted by their cell phone certainly qualifies.
If you have been involved in a car accident and you suspect the driver’s cell phone use was to blame, there are a few steps you can take to preserve your ability to seek compensation for your losses:
- Call the Police: Under Florida law, you always need to contact local law enforcement if someone appears to be injured in a car accident. Having the police at the scene means an officer will conduct an investigation, which often helps prove a driver was using their cell phone just before the crash
- Gather Evidence: There are often multiple witnesses who saw the driver on their phone. Take down their names and contact information. You should also use your own smartphone to take pictures of the accident scene.
- Seek Medical Attention: Proving a driver distracted by their cell phone caused your accident is just the first step in seeking compensation. You also need to document any injuries you sustained. So it is a good idea to seek immediate medical attention following your crash.
Contact Anderson & Anderson Today
Under Florida’s no-fault insurance system, most minor accidents are covered by the victim’s own personal injury protection (PIP) coverage. In cases where the victim sustained serious injuries, however, the victim can pursue compensation from the negligent driver and their insurance company. A skilled Tampa cell phone car accident lawyer can help you in this area. Call Anderson & Anderson today at 813-251-0072 or contact us online to schedule an initial consultation.
