We all know that distracted drivers pose a risk to other drivers and pedestrians on the road, but there is another category of people we often do not consider – emergency first responders. These professionals are trained to arrive and provide assistance at the scene of an emergency, such as a motor vehicle accident. Every year, a number of first responders including law enforcement, tow truck drivers and others end up being hit by other cars while tending to an accident scene. If you were hurt in an accident involving a distracted driver, you need to consult an experienced Miami injury attorney. At our firm, we are dedicated to scrutinizing the facts of your case and helping you secure the damages you deserve.
Distracted drivers are a rising threat to first responders, according to a new report released by the National Safety Council. The data shows that 71 percent of drivers conceded to snapping pictures and sending texts while driving past emergency workers – nearly three times the 24 percent who admitted to doing so under ordinary driving conditions. In addition, sixty percent admitted to being active on social media; and 66 percent have sent emails about what they are passing on the road.
The consequences of this behavior are fatal. Sixteen percent of those driving motor vehicles state that they have hit or almost hit an emergency automobile or first responder on the side of the street. In fact, forty first responders died as a result of being hit on the side of the street last year, a 60 percent spike from 2017. This year, twenty-one first responders lost their lives, including ten police officers, and fourteen officers were struck and killed in 2018.
Unfortunately, distracted driving is the cause of countless accidents in Florida and across the US every year. If you have been injured in an accident caused by a distracted driver, you may be entitled to damages such as medical expenses, lost wages, rehabilitation costs, pain and suffering, as well as compensation for any other losses arising from the accident. Distracted driving can be the basis for a legal claim for damages against the distracted driver. Most claims arising out of Florida car crashes are the result of negligence. All drivers have a duty to drive carefully and minimize distractions behind the wheel. As such, negligence takes place when a person causes an accident and injury by failing to use ordinary care while driving. Ordinary care refers to using the level of care and caution that a reasonably prudent person would have used in the same situation.
Despite the well-known dangers of distracted driving, it continues to be a major problem. If you have been injured in an accident caused by a distracted driver, you need to speak to our skilled Miami auto accident attorneys immediately. At the Law Offices of Robert Dixon, we are committed to providing diligent legal representation every step of the way. If you have questions regarding your car accident or any other personal injury matter, please do not hesitate to call us at 1-877-499-HURT (4878) or contact us online today.