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Distracted Driver Accidents

Using a cell phone while driving might seem like an innocent activity, especially when a driver needs to check their GPS on the way to a new destination, or thinks a text message is absolutely urgent. However, what seems like a minor distraction that takes a driver’s eyes off the road for a few moments can cause a serious crash. In fact, while driving at 55 miles per hour, a car covers the length of a football field in the time it takes to send or read a text. Using a cell phone while behind the wheel increases the chance of an accident by 400%.

Unfortunately, distracted driving is very common in the United States. According to the Illinois State Police, distracted driving contributes to more than 1 million accidents in North America each year, at a cost of almost $40 billion.

Talking on a cell phone or texting is a major cause of distracted driver accidents. Other factors that contribute to distracted driving accidents include:

  • Looking at a navigation system
  • Eating or drinking
  • Changing settings on the car stereo
  • Looking for items in the car
  • Grooming/putting on makeup
  • Daydreaming, looking at scenery or otherwise not looking at the road

If a distracted driver causes an accident, the victims can file a personal injury claim to compensate for damages.

What Should I Do After a Distracted Driving Accident?

The aftermath of a car accident can be stressful and confusing. However, an accident victim should always seek medical attention as soon as possible to check for injuries and begin any necessary treatment. The drivers should exchange personal information, including their names, addresses, phone numbers, and names of insurance companies. If possible, the drivers should take photos of the accident scene and take information from any witnesses.

In the state of Illinois, it is required for drivers involved in an accident to notify the police. If anyone is injured and/or there is property damage over $1500, the DMV also requires the drivers to file a Motorist Crash Report with the Illinois Department of Transportation.
If the accident was caused by another driver, it is advisable to consult a personal injury lawyer. The initial consultation is free, and a lawyer can inform the accident victim about how to proceed with pursuing their claim.

How Can a Lawyer Help After a Distracted Driving Accident

A personal injury lawyer has expert knowledge of the claims process and the full spectrum of damages a distracted driver accident victim is entitled to, including

  • Costs for medical treatment, such as ambulance transport, emergency room visits, follow-up doctor’s appointments, surgeries, prescription medications, physical therapy, and assistive devices
  • Recovering from injuries and time for doctor and physical therapy appointments means lost income. A distracted driving accident could also lead to a permanent disability that prevents the victim from returning to their normal work duties.
  • A vehicle accident caused by distracted driving will lead to property damage. The victim could be facing extensive repairs to their car, and if still able to drive after the accident, will need a rental car. Their car could even be totaled and need to be replaced.
  • Experiencing a distracted driving accident can cause a range of mental and emotional effects, such as post-traumatic stress syndrome (PTSD), mental anguish, depression and fear of driving. Suffering injuries causes physical pain that interferes with enjoyment of life. These experiences are defined as pain and suffering or non-economic damages.

A personal injury lawyer will meticulously document your claim based on medical and police records, and build a case for the maximum fair settlement under the law.

A lawyer has the expertise to negotiate with insurance companies. Insurance companies are large corporations with their own legal teams. Attempting to negotiate a claim as an individual without a legal background puts an accident victim at a disadvantage. They may not be aware of all of the damages they are legally entitled to, and may accept a lower offer simply to get the process over with.

If you have been involved in an accident caused by a distracted driver, you may be entitled to compensation for your medical bills, lost income, property damage and pain and suffering. Contact the experienced team at Mueller, Lawson & Frobish for a consultation.

Real People, Real Stories

I was referred by a friend to Eric Frobish, when going through a divorce and I am glad I took this advice. From the day of the consultation to the day the divorce was finalized, I was patiently walked through the entire process and kept up to date throughout the entire process. Eric is very straight-forward, down to earth and knowledgeable in regards to divorce and child custody. Eric’s assistant, Sarah is also very kind and helpful. Divorce is a very stressful situation and Eric and Sarah made the process and transition so much easier. I would highly recommend Eric to anyone in need of a divorce or child custody attorney, as you will not be disappointed!

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I was recently divorced on 03~01~16. My case was taken care of in a real professional and private manner. I can remember when I talked to my counsel on the telephone for a consultation. He had patience with me, even though I had a real hard time telling my story without crying. My story was a little terrifying to tell to another person, but Mr. Frobish was a good listener. I had been looking for legal help for a while. There was a lot of suffering all the while. I still go to meetings for mental and physical abuse. I substained very bad physical abuse, close to death. My former husband was/is a career criminal and still on the run. Mueller, Lawson & Frobish, P.C. took care of my divorce and they were very kind and caring and also showed me respect. Everyone in the firm did a great job in keeping me informed on the progress they were making on my case. I would definitely recommend this law firm to anyone. I again just want to thank you so much for taking care of my divorce. Forever thankful – Vickie Sue Crumb

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Professional, courteous and knowledgeable – we will recommend them and use them again in our future.

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I am a devoted father who was seeking a shared custody 50/50 parenting time of my now 4 year old son. I asked around for a good attorney and I was referred to Eric Frobish. During my consultation with Mr. Frobish, I felt he was honest and straight forward with my case. Today I have shared custody of my son. I was very pleased with the outcome of my case and I have Mr. Frobish to thank! Mr. Frobish continues to represent me so I can maintain my 50/50 parenting time. I would highly recommend Mr. Frobish.

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A top-notch law firm that listens to their clients. A wide variety of services are offered, give them a call for great legal assistance.

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Mueller, Lawson & Frobish, P.C. is an excellent Law Firm located in Morris Illinois. Specifically, Eric Frobish is an excellent attorney that we have worked with in a Guardianship case for the past three plus years. I found the above referenced law firm from the Internet. Upon the very first meeting, Eric was completely professional, honest and explained clearly what all was going to be involved in such an important case. This case was urgent, and had allot of unknowns and seemingly impossible odds against our ability to win. I am elated that after three years of sound advice and hard work on Eric Frobish’s part, we won the case. So many lives were impacted positively because of Eric’s knowledge of the law, his compassion for the children involved and experience. I honestly doubt that we could have won this case if it were any other lawyer in the area, other than Eric. He not only out maneuvered blatantly untrue attempts for us to lose, but brought in numerous witnesses to testify with facts to prove they were all untrue. Their was not one stone unturned. Eric guided us the entire duration and was absolutely impressive during the trial. We were so proud that Eric was representing us! There are no words that can express the gratitude we have towards Mr. Eric Frobish and his law firm. Everyone at the firm from the Lawyer, Assistants and the Secretary were nothing but courteous, polite and professional and I would highly recommend their services to anyone.

- DOYAL AND KELLY A.

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