Fresno Distracted Driving Accident Attorneys

Injured by a Distracted Driver in Fresno, CA?

At Fowler | Helsel | Vogt, we are committed to representing victims of distracted driving accidents in Fresno. Distracted driving remains one of the leading causes of serious and fatal crashes, often resulting in life-changing injuries and financial hardship for victims. Our team of experienced Fresno distracted driving accident lawyers understands the complexities of these cases and is dedicated to holding negligent drivers accountable.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a distracted driving accident, we are here to fight for the compensation you deserve. From medical bills to lost wages, we will work tirelessly to secure the recovery you need to move forward.

Contact us at (559) 900-1280 to schedule your free initial consultation— and get the team at Fowler | Helsel | Vogt on your side today!

What is Distracted Driving?

Distracted driving occurs when a driver engages in any activity that diverts their attention from the road. While it may seem harmless, even a few seconds of distraction can have devastating consequences. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), distracted driving is a significant contributor to car accidents in the U.S., resulting in thousands of fatalities and injuries each year.

There are three primary types of distractions:

• Visual: Taking your eyes off the road.
• Manual: Removing your hands from the wheel.
• Cognitive: Shifting your focus away from driving.

Here are some of the most common forms of distractions:

• Cell Phones: Cell phones are one of the most dangerous distractions for drivers. Texting, checking notifications, making calls, or scrolling through social media all take the driver’s eyes and attention off the road. Texting is especially hazardous as it combines all three types of distractions: visual, manual, and cognitive. Even glancing at a phone for a few seconds can lead to catastrophic consequences.
• Passengers: Engaging with passengers can divert a driver’s attention from the road. Conversations, especially heated or emotional ones, can create cognitive distractions, while children or pets in the car may demand physical attention. Distracted driving involving passengers is particularly common among young or inexperienced drivers.
• Adjusting the Radio or Music: Fiddling with the radio, changing music, or adjusting audio settings can cause drivers to lose focus. Taking even one hand off the wheel or looking away from the road to locate a song can lead to an accident, especially in high-traffic areas.
• Eating and Drinking: Eating or drinking while driving may seem harmless, but it requires the driver to take one hand off the wheel and often diverts their attention from the road. Hot coffee spills, fumbling with wrappers, or reaching for items can lead to accidents, especially if the driver loses control of the vehicle.
• GPS Devices: Using GPS or navigation systems is essential for many drivers, especially those unfamiliar with Fresno or other parts of California. However, manually entering an address, glancing at the map, or taking directions can be distracting. It’s crucial to set up navigation systems before driving or use hands-free options to minimize distractions.
• Daydreaming or “Highway Hypnosis”: Daydreaming, fatigue, and mental preoccupation are some of the most underrated distractions. Often, drivers don’t realize that they’re zoning out or thinking about something other than driving, which can cause delayed reactions and poor decision-making.

California Texting While Driving Laws

California has strict laws in place to discourage drivers from using handheld devices. Under California law, it is illegal for drivers to use handheld cell phones for texting, calling, or other forms of electronic communication while driving. This law is outlined in California Vehicle Code Section 23123, which prohibits holding a cell phone while driving unless it is specifically for emergency purposes.

For drivers under 18, even hands-free phone use is prohibited. Law enforcement agencies across Fresno and the state regularly enforce these laws, yet violations continue to occur. Drivers who disregard these laws not only endanger themselves but also put others at risk.

Penalties for violating California’s texting and cell phone laws include fines, which can escalate with repeat offenses. In the case of an accident caused by texting or phone use, these infractions can be used as evidence to establish liability.

Liability in Distracted Driving Accidents

Establishing liability in a distracted driving accident can be complex. Our attorneys at Fowler | Helsel | Vogt have the experience and resources needed to build a strong case on your behalf. To prove liability, we gather evidence such as:

• Police Reports: These often contain details about the driver’s behavior, including citations for distracted driving.
• Witness Statements: Testimonies from bystanders or passengers can support claims that the driver was distracted.
• Cell Phone Records: In some cases, we can obtain cell phone records to verify if the driver was texting or using their phone during the crash.
• Surveillance Footage: Traffic cameras or surveillance footage may capture distracted behavior or erratic driving.

How We Can Help

If you’ve been injured in a distracted driving accident in Fresno, hiring an experienced attorney can make all the difference. Our legal team at Fowler | Helsel | Vogt will handle every aspect of your case, including:

• Investigation: We conduct a thorough investigation to gather evidence and establish liability.
• Negotiation: We negotiate with insurance companies to secure a fair settlement, protecting you from low-ball offers.
• Litigation: If a settlement cannot be reached, we are fully prepared to take your case to trial.

We understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll distracted driving accidents can take on victims and their families. Our goal is to alleviate the burden by securing the compensation you need to rebuild your life.

Contact us online or call (559) 900-1280 today to speak with our team to discuss your options.