Distracted Driving Accident Attorney

When an accident occurs, we can’t be sure whether the other driver was distracted. This can make your claim case confusing and difficult to handle. Car accident attorneys at Dubo Law will closely investigate the case, handle legal concerns, and make sure to determine which party was negligent. Our winning team will help clients prove liability, protect the client’s rights, and make sure to win maximum compensation from the insurance companies. We have many years of experience in handling distracted driving cases, and we do it with empathy, honesty, and level-headed reason. Contact us at (443) 275-6345 for free case consultations.

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        IV.            Statute of Limitations

Statute of Limitations marks a period during which a driver can file a claim for compensation for personal injury and property damage. The general rule in Maryland is three years from the day of an accident. In case the driver fails to meet the deadline, he/she won’t be entitled to seek compensation. There are few exceptions to this rule:

• Minors have time until they turn 21.
• Those who were mentally incapacitated at the time of an accident have time until they are mentally competent again.
• Wrongful death cases

      V.            Penalties for Distracted Driving in Maryland

Distracted driving is mostly considered a minor offense and at fault drivers only pay fines. Under Section 21-1124.2 mentioned above the penalties will be conducted as follows:

• First time offender – Maximum $75 fine and sometimes the court dismisses the penalty entirely.
• Second time offender – Results in maximum of $125
• Third time offender – Maximum $175 fine

Maryland Transportation Code Section 21-1124.3 is designed for severe distracted driving injuries or fatalities and it passes maximum 12 months in prison and $5,000 fine.

How Do We Recognize a Distracted Driver? Signs We Should Pay Attention To

If we are aware of the possible signs of a distracted driver, we can try to prevent an accident from happening. Also, if a crash happens anyway, it will be easier to determine the fault and get compensation claim. Some of the signs are:

• Spotting a driver who doesn’t look ahead on the road, but down on something
• When a driver stops longer than necessary at stop signs
• Tailgating the vehicle ahead
• Failure to keep lane position, driving between lanes, and changing lanes suddenly.
• Sudden speed increases and decreases
• Sudden braking

In case you come across a vehicle driven by distracted driver drive defensively, pull ahead, slow down and let them pass. Never engage in an argument and take matters in your own hands. The best possible solution would be to stop on the side of the road, call 911 and report unsafe driving.

What Is Our Responsibility?

This question imposes another question which is: What can we do to focus on the road instead of being distracted? Here are possible solutions:

• No phone rule while driving. You can put out the phone on the back seat and turn the sound off to avoid temptation.
• Reduce the number of passengers and activities in the vehicle.
• Don’t drive if you are drowsy!
• Avoid eating or drinking while in a moving vehicle.
• No multitasking!

Things To Do After Distracted Driving Accident

There are certain steps which a driver should follow being involved in a distracted driving crash. Of course, it all depends on the seriousness and injuries that occurred in an accident. We will list some of the most common actions which should be taken right after the crash.

1. Try to stay still and check for possible injuries to both passengers and you.
2. Move away from the road if possible.
3. Call 911! In Maryland calling police officers is not mandatory and depends on the injuries and damages.
4. Exchange personal, vehicle and insurance information with the other driver.
5. Gather evidence from the scene.
6. File the claim! This can be started right away, and you just need to hire an attorney.