Aurora Distracted Driving Accidents Attorney

Holding Distracted Drivers Accountable in Illinois

Distracted driving is a serious problem in the United States and is responsible for a high number of car accidents, injuries, and fatalities on the nation's roadways. While many states like Illinois have begun enacting laws making it illegal to engage in distracted driving activities like texting while driving, accidents resulting from distracted driving continue to occur frequently. Anyone involved in a distracted driving accident in Illinois should be aware of their legal options for seeking compensation from the driver responsible for the accident.

At Woodruff Johnson & Evans Law Offices, we understand how prevalent distracted driving has become in our society and regularly see first-hand the devastation these accidents have on individuals and families. We stand committed to aggressively representing clients who have been injured due to someone driving while distracted. When people hire our firm, they can do so knowing that our attorneys have the skills and resources to do whatever it takes to pursue justice.

The Three Forms of Distracted Driving

To better understand distracted driving accidents from the perspective of personal injury law, it is essential to explore the causes of distracted driving accidents in Illinois and what legal remedies are available to sufferers of these kinds of events. 

Distracted driving involves three kinds of distractions: visual, manual, and cognitive. For example, a visual distraction may occur when a driver takes their eyes off the road. Manual distracted driving could mean removing the hands from the steering wheel. And finally, cognitive distracted driving is any activity that takes the mind off driving.

Examples of Distracted Driving

This negligent form of driving occurs when a driver engages in any activity that diverts their attention from the roadway, compromising their ability to maintain complete control of their vehicle, assess potential hazards, and take necessary action to avoid a collision. Tday, texting while driving is the most notorious form of distracted driving. However, there are more forms to be aware of. These include the following:

• Talking on the phone 
• Eating or drinking while driving
• Talking to other passengers 
• Applying makeup or grooming 
• Reaching for objects 
• Playing with the radio
• Soothing upset children

Distracted Driving Has Tragic Consequences

Although car accidents happen all the time, most people do not really believe they will be in one until it happens to them. Many people, therefore, end up engaging in risky behaviors while they drive and only realize the tragic consequences of their actions when it is too late. 

Because people cannot control the direction of their car when they are looking down at their phone or radio, distracted driving accidents cause a significant number of head-on, side-impact, and rollover crashes. These are the most serious kinds of car crashes and often result in passengers being crushed, pinned, or ejected from the vehicle. Those injured in distracted driving accidents may face: 

• Brain damage
• Paralysis
• Spinal cord injuries
• Internal organ damage
• Hemorrhaging 
• Broken bones
• Amputations
• Disfigurement and scarring
• Loss of life

People who suffer such serious injuries can face a life-long recovery process and may never be the same. Even with extensive medical care and rehabilitative therapy, someone may never be able to walk, work, or engage in their favorite activities again. When such tragic outcomes happen, we believe the person or persons responsible should be held accountable.

Contact a Chicago Car Crash Lawyer

One text message sent at the wrong moment can change lives forever. If you or someone you love have suffered the effects of another driver's irresponsible decisions, you deserve to be compensated. While no amount of money will undo a tragic accident, compensation can help pay for necessary medical treatment, lost wages, and more. 

At Woodruff Johnson & Evans Law Offices, we know that when the unexpected occurs, people need somewhere to turn. That is where we come in. For the best legal representation you can find, contact our office at 630-585-2320 for a free consultation today.