Accident investigators handle distracted driving cases by focusing on the cause of the crash and contributing factors, such as identifying the type of distraction. They speak to witnesses, conduct vehicle inspections, and obtain cell phone records, if applicable. Whenever possible, they will visit the accident scene and reconstruct the sequence of events to attribute negligence and financial liability accurately.
car accident lawyers hire accident investigators to support their client’s injury claim. The results of their investigation can prove the other driver was distracted and you have the right to compensation. An initial consultation is often free and allows you to learn more about your claim, how accident investigators handle distracted driving cases, and how they can support your right to financial recovery.
Accident Investigators Identify the Distraction That Caused a Crash
Texting while driving is a leading cause of distracted driving accidents. However, it is not the only type of distraction that leads to car crashes. A distraction is anything that takes the driver’s attention off the road and the safe operation of their vehicle. In addition to texting, that includes:
- Making or receiving phone calls
- Eating food or drinking beverages
- Talking to passengers
- Adjusting music and GPS devices
- Grooming or applying makeup
The investigator in your claim will report their findings to your legal team. They can also provide access to an array of evidence for your case file.
Car Accident Investigators Know How to Build a Solid Evidence Collection
Investigating distracted driving accidents is a meticulous process that begins with identifying the exact distraction that caused your accident. The investigator will collect evidence and build a comprehensive case file. Depending on the distraction, the file might include:
- Witness statements: Eyewitnesses can describe the scene and each driver’s actions from various points of view.
- Photos and videos: Traffic, dashcam, and security video can capture the distracted driver’s actions before the collision.
- Official reports: Police reports typically include accident narratives and diagrams, while EMT reports will describe your injuries.
- Cell phone records: Cell phone records in car accidents can establish the time a driver involved in the collision sent or received a call or text.
- Physical evidence: Debris from both vehicles, points of impact on both cars, and items found in each driver’s possession.
Your evidence file will also prove the severity of the accident and your injuries and the crash’s monetary impact. Your case file will include medical records and bills, proof of income, and property repair or replacement estimates.
Accident Investigators Handle Distracted Driving Cases With Various Tools
According to an Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) study, more than one-fifth of drivers report cell phone use during all or most rides. That’s why investigators use these tools and techniques to examine distracted driving claims:
- Roadside cameras
- Telematic (GPS) data
Vehicle black box data and other digital vehicle forensic tools provide investigators with data and feedback. Finally, investigators use more commonplace tools, like the at-fault driver’s social media posts and history of the same or similar traffic violations.
Pay Nothing Out of Pocket to Hire a Car Accident Investigator and Lawyer
The sooner a distracted driving investigation into your accident gets underway, the better. You can hire a car accident lawyer at no upfront cost. They will cover all the expenses associated with building your claim, including hiring an investigator.
This service is one of many benefits of getting legal guidance and support immediately. In addition, under a contingency agreement, you only compensate the law firm if it recovers damages for you and owe nothing if it does not.
A Detailed Car Accident Investigation Can Lead to Financial Compensation
Investigating your accident and proving the negligent act of distracted driving caused it opens the door to financial recovery. A distracted driving attorney will request these damages on your behalf:
- Medical bills
- Lost income
- Property damage and loss
- Physical disability
- Disfiguring injuries
- Pain and suffering
- Mental anguish
- Emotional distress
- Loss of enjoyment of life
If a distracted driving accident led to a family member’s death, your family could recover wrongful death compensation. A wrongful death lawyer will clarify the losses you can recover, who can file a claim, and which family members can receive compensation.
Your Lawyer Will Comply With Florida’s Statute of Limitations
You generally have two years to comply with the personal injury or wrongful death statute of limitations, per Florida Statutes § 95.11. If you do not file your lawsuit on time, the court could prohibit you from filing it. If that happens, you could inadvertently relinquish the legal ability to compel compensation from the at-fault driver.
The investigator will focus on conducting a thorough examination of your claim and the resulting evidence. Your lawyer will focus on filing your lawsuit on time.
Call to Get a Free Review of Your Distracted Driving Case
Suppose you suffered injuries in a car accident caused by a distracted driver. In that case, the car accident lawyers at the Law Offices of Wolf & Pravato will pursue compensation on your behalf. We will investigate your accident by working with subject matter experts and fight for your financial recovery.
Find out how accident investigators handle distracted driving cases with a free evaluation. Contact our consultation team at (954) 633-8270 now to get yours.
