Springfield Distracted Driving Lawyers

Injured in a Crash Caused by a Distracted Driver?

Distracted driving is a leading cause of accidents on Missouri roadways, leaving victims with severe injuries, mounting medical bills, and ongoing emotional trauma. If you or a loved one has been involved in a distracted driving accident, Aaron Sachs & Associates, P.C. is here to help. Our Springfield distracted driving accident lawyers are dedicated to holding negligent drivers accountable and securing the compensation you deserve.

If you were hurt in a distracted driving accident in Springfield, MO, contact us at (888) 287-1046 today to schedule a free consultation.

What is Distracted Driving?

Distracted driving occurs when a driver engages in any activity that diverts their attention from the primary task of operating the vehicle. Whether it’s looking away from the road, using a cellphone, or adjusting the radio, these actions can cause a split-second loss of focus that leads to devastating crashes. Even a momentary distraction can lead to life-altering injuries or death.

At Aaron Sachs & Associates, P.C., we know the impact that distracted driving can have on victims and their families. Our legal team is committed to pursuing justice for those injured in these preventable accidents.

Common Forms of Distractions

Distractions can be categorized into three main types: manual, visual, and cognitive. Any of these can significantly impair a driver's ability to react to changing conditions on the road.

Manual Distractions

Manual distractions involve taking your hands off the wheel. Common examples include:

• Eating or drinking
• Adjusting car controls (radio, air conditioning)
• Reaching for objects inside the vehicle
• Grooming (brushing hair, applying makeup)

Visual Distractions

Visual distractions occur when drivers take their eyes off the road. This can happen when:

• Checking GPS or navigation systems
• Looking at passengers or other objects inside the car
• Staring at billboards or roadside attractions

Cognitive Distractions

Cognitive distractions divert a driver's mind from focusing on the road. Examples include:

• Daydreaming or lost in thought
• Engaging in emotional conversations with passengers
• Talking on the phone (even hands-free)

Texting while driving is one of the most dangerous distractions because it involves all three types of distractions—manual, visual, and cognitive. In Missouri, thousands of accidents are caused each year by drivers who are not paying attention to the road because they are distracted by their phones or other activities.

Missouri Distracted Driving Laws

Missouri has implemented several laws designed to reduce distracted driving and make the roads safer for everyone. However, these laws vary depending on the driver's age, type of license, and driving environment.

Texting and Driving Laws in Missouri

Missouri is one of the few states without a complete ban on texting while driving for all drivers. However, the state does have specific restrictions in place:

• Drivers under 21: Missouri law prohibits drivers under the age of 21 from texting while driving. This ban applies to the use of any handheld electronic devices for texting or other messaging.
• Commercial drivers: The law also prohibits commercial drivers from texting while driving, including truck drivers and bus operators.

Drivers over the age of 21 who are not operating commercial vehicles are currently allowed to text while driving, though this can still be considered negligent behavior if it leads to an accident. At Aaron Sachs & Associates, P.C., we argue that all forms of distracted driving, including texting, should be considered a form of negligence that endangers the lives of others.

Hands-Free Device Use

While there is no specific ban on the use of hands-free devices for drivers over 21, it is important to note that even using a hands-free device can be distracting. Cognitive distractions from conversations or navigating calls can impair judgment and reaction times.

School Zones and Work Zones

It is important to note that Missouri law mandates extra caution when driving in school zones and work zones. Distracted driving in these areas can lead to more severe penalties, especially if it results in injury or death.

Proving Liability in a Distracted Driving Accident

Proving that the other driver was distracted at the time of an accident can be challenging, but with the help of a skilled Springfield distracted driving accident lawyer, you can gather the necessary evidence to build a strong case. At Aaron Sachs & Associates, P.C., we use various methods to establish driver distraction, including:

• Cell phone records: These can be subpoenaed to show if the driver was texting, calling, or using a smartphone app at the time of the accident.
• Eyewitness testimony: Passengers, other drivers, and bystanders may have seen the at-fault driver engaging in distracting activities.
• Traffic camera footage: In some cases, surveillance footage from traffic cameras or nearby businesses can provide visual proof of the driver's actions.
• Police reports: Law enforcement may have noted signs of distracted driving in the official accident report.

By thoroughly investigating the accident and gathering compelling evidence, we can demonstrate that the distracted driver’s negligence was the direct cause of your injuries. Our experienced legal team will work tirelessly to secure the maximum compensation for your injuries, ensuring that you can focus on your recovery without the added burden of financial stress.

Call (888) 287-1046 or contact us online today to schedule a free consultation, and let us help you get started on the path to justice.