Virginia Distracted Driving Accident Lawyers

Injured by a Distracted Driver in VA?

Distracted driving is a growing concern on Virginia's roads, leading to countless accidents, injuries, and even fatalities each year. If you or a loved one has been injured due to a distracted driver, you may be entitled to compensation for your damages. At Rowe Weinstein & Sohn, our experienced Virginia distracted driving accident attorneys are dedicated to helping victims navigate the legal process and secure the justice they deserve.

To request a free consultation, call (571) 486-4798 or contact us online today!

What is Distracted Driving?

Distracted driving occurs when a driver diverts their attention from the primary task of driving to engage in another activity. There are three main types of distractions: visual, manual, and cognitive.

Visual distractions take your eyes off the road. Manual distractions take your hands off the steering wheel. Lastly, cognitive distractions take your mind away from properly operating a vehicle.

Distracted driving significantly increases the risk of accidents as it reduces the driver's ability to react to road conditions, traffic signals, and other vehicles.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), distracted driving is one of the leading causes of traffic accidents in the United States. In Virginia, the impact of distracted driving is evident in the number of crashes, injuries, and fatalities reported each year.

Common Distractions on the Road

Distracted driving can stem from a variety of sources, each posing a unique risk to drivers, passengers, and pedestrians. Some of the most common distractions on the road include:

• Texting and Using a Smartphone: Texting is one of the most dangerous forms of distraction as it involves visual, manual, and cognitive engagement. Even a few seconds of looking away from the road to send a text can lead to catastrophic consequences.
• Eating and Drinking: Consuming food or beverages while driving can take a driver’s hands off the wheel and eyes off the road, increasing the likelihood of an accident.
• Adjusting the Radio or GPS: Changing the station, searching for a song, or inputting a destination into a GPS device can all divert a driver’s attention from the road.
• Talking to Passengers: Engaging in deep conversation or turning to speak with passengers can distract drivers and reduce their focus on driving.
• Personal Grooming: Activities such as applying makeup, shaving, or fixing hair can take a driver’s attention away from the road, increasing the risk of an accident.
• Daydreaming: Mental distractions, such as daydreaming or being lost in thought, can be just as dangerous as physical distractions, as they reduce a driver’s focus on the road.

Virginia Distracted Driving Laws

As of January 1, 2021, Virginia law prohibits drivers from holding a handheld personal communications device while driving. This includes actions such as texting, talking on the phone, or using apps. Violations of this law can result in fines and points on the driver’s license.

Texting while driving is explicitly banned in Virginia, and this applies to all drivers, regardless of age or experience. Violating this law is considered a primary offense, meaning a law enforcement officer can pull a driver over solely for texting while driving.

The fines for using a handheld device while driving in Virginia are $125 for the first offense and $250 for subsequent offenses. Additionally, if a driver is caught using a handheld device in a work zone, the fine is increased to $250, even for a first offense.

Why Choose Rowe Weinstein & Sohn?

At Rowe Weinstein & Sohn, we understand the devastating impact that a distracted driving accident can have on your life. Our Virginia distracted driving accident lawyers are committed to providing compassionate, personalized legal representation to help you recover the compensation you need to move forward.

Here are several reasons why you should hire our firm:

• Experience: With years of experience handling personal injury claims, our attorneys have the knowledge and expertise to navigate the complexities of distracted driving cases.
• Personalized Attention: We treat each case as unique and take the time to understand your specific circumstances and needs. You can count on us to be by your side every step of the way.
• Results-Driven Approach: Our goal is to secure the best possible outcome for you, whether through a settlement or a court verdict. We are relentless in our pursuit of justice for our clients.

Find out the merits of your claim and how much it may be valued at. Call us at (571) 486-4798 or contact us today.