Distracted driving is a serious problem in Augusta County, but this problem becomes even more severe when the distracted motorist is driving a large truck. While there have been problems with distracted drivers for many years, the increase in cellphone and other device use has increased the number of preoccupied drivers on the road today.
Sadly, Interstate 81 and Interstate 64 in hotspots for tractor-trailer accidents. If you sustained severe injuries due to the negligence of a distracted truck driver, you may be able to seek recovery for your accident-related damages. A lawsuit or insurance claim for damages may seem like a significant and complex undertaking for an individual. However, a legal representative experienced in distracted driving truck accidents in Augusta County could review the circumstances surrounding your accident and determine your legal options. Schedule a consultation with a truck crash attorney at The Warren Firm for your injury today.
Effective January 1, 2021, it is now illegal to hold a handheld personal communications device (e.g., a smartphone) while driving a moving motor vehicle on the highways in Virginia. Unsurprisingly, not everyone obeys this law. Texting, emailing, calling, and internet browsing can be a huge distraction for any driver.
Distracted tractor-trailer drivers can be even more dangerous due to the size and low reaction of the vehicle. Beyond handheld devices, here are other common activities that can put the truck driver and others at risk include:
When a truck driver takes his or her attention off operating the vehicle for even an instant, it can be dangerous. If you were in a truck wreck because of the actions of a distracted trucker, a seasoned attorney could provide valuable assistance in providing evidence of the trucker’s fault.
The available compensation after a truck accident case typically depends on the plaintiff’s injuries in addition to a variety of factors such as lost wages and pain and suffering. In some circumstances, a court might award an injured individual punitive damages to further punish the responsible parties for gross negligence. Importantly, however, Virginia Code § 8.01-38.1 provides limitations on the amount of punitive damages that may be awarded.
It is also imperative to understand the state’s contributory negligence laws before filing a claim. Under state law, you might be prohibited from recovering damages if the defendant can prove you contributed in any way to the crash. This process can be complicated, but a local lawyer could help investigate your claim to determine the responsible parties and fight for fair compensation.
If you suffered injuries in a wreck because of a distracted truck driver, you likely have a significant road to recovery ahead of you with mounting medical bills and lost wages. A lawyer knowledgeable in distracted driving truck accidents in Augusta County could help investigate your case and fight for the compensation you deserve. Call The Warren Firm to schedule a private consultation today.
