Distracted driving is a big problem across the United States. In Georgia, a distracted driving law is in place to protect motorists and pedestrians. If a person violates this law, this individual can cause an accident, as well as incur legal and financial penalties.
At Barrios Virgüez Attorneys, we offer legal help to those impacted by distracted drivers in Georgia. If you are involved in a car accident with a distracted driver, we can put you in touch with an attorney. From here, our Georgia car accident lawyer can answer common questions surrounding the state’s distracted driving law and related topics.
What Is Distracted Driving?
Distracted driving refers to any activity in which a motorist is no longer focused on the road. There are many distractions that can cause a motorist to lose focus behind the wheel. These include:
- Eating while driving
- Texting or talking on the phone while driving
- Tuning a car stereo
- Talking to passengers
- Setting a navigation or entertainment system
Distracted drivers cause thousands of car crashes every year. These crashes can result in injuries and fatalities to those involved in them. They can also lead to personal injury lawsuits against distracted drivers.
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What Is the Distracted Driving Law in Georgia?
Georgia has a hands-free law in place that prohibits the following while driving:
- Use of a handheld cell phone
- Sending, writing, or reading text messages
- Reading or publishing social media posts
- Watching or recording videos
- General distracted driving activities
Georgia lawmakers enacted the hands-free law in July 2018. In the first six months after the law became official, Georgia police officers issued over 8,000 citations for distracted driving. They continue to be on the lookout for distracted drivers and will penalize them accordingly.
What Are the Penalties for Distracted Driving in Georgia?
Those who are convicted of distracted driving in Georgia can receive a fine of up to $50 for their first offense. This fine increases for each additional violation. Fines can rise as high as $150 for violations of Georgia’s distracted driving law.
If a person causes an accident due to distracted driving, this individual is held accountable for their actions. Along with receiving a fine, the distracted driver can be sued. The driver can face serious financial penalties, as this individual can be held accountable for damages to those injured during the accident.
For those who suffer an injury in an auto accident caused by a distracted driver, consult with a Georgia car accident attorney. This allows an auto accident victim to file a lawsuit against a distracted driver. The victim may be able to receive tens of thousands of dollars in damages.
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How Do I File a Lawsuit Against a Distracted Driver in Georgia?
Following a car accident caused by a distracted driver in Georgia, seek medical help. You can go to a doctor who can diagnose and treat any injuries. Next, you can reach out to a car accident lawyer in Georgia who can help you file a personal injury lawsuit.
You have up to two years from the date of a car accident to request damages from anyone responsible. If you wait more than two years from the date of your accident to pursue damages, you lose the right to do so. This means you are fully responsible for any damages relating to your accident, even if it was caused by a distracted driver.
By partnering with an experienced car accident attorney in Georgia, you are well-equipped to sue a distracted driver before it is too late. Your lawyer will make sure your lawsuit is filed within a reasonable time frame. Plus, your attorney will help you present a strong argument in court.
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What Will Happen After You File a Lawsuit Against a Distracted Driver in Georgia?
Once you sue a distracted driver in Georgia, the legal process gets underway. You may wait weeks or months before you and the distracted driver must appear in court for a trial. In the meantime, you and the defendant can negotiate a settlement.
A settlement may allow you to receive a portion of the damages you request as part of your lawsuit. If you agree to a settlement, you can close your case without going to trial. At the same time, you will receive compensation you can use to cover your medical bills and other expenses relating to your car accident.
Your attorney can help you evaluate any settlement offers that come your way. If you are not satisfied with a settlement proposal, you can reject it without penalty. In this scenario, you and your attorney will continue to prepare for your trial.
How Can You Collect Damages from a Distracted Driver in Georgia?
You may negotiate a settlement with a distracted driver who causes an accident. With a settlement, you and the at-fault party in your case come to terms without the need for a trial. This allows you to secure damages that serve you well now and in the future.
Comparatively, you may need to go to trial to prove to a judge or jury that you should be awarded damages. In a trial, your attorney will present evidence to support your request. If your lawyer is successful, you will be awarded the full amount of the damages you requested.
Your attorney will do everything in their power to help you collect the maximum amount of damages from a distracted driver. Over the course of your litigation, your lawyer will meet with you and craft a personalized legal strategy. That way, you can put your best foot forward during a trial and compel a judge or jury to rule in your favor.
How Can You Get Started with a Lawsuit Against a Distracted Driver in Georgia?
The team at Barrios Virgüez Attorneys simplifies the process of filing a lawsuit against a distracted driver in Georgia. Our team can review your legal claim and help you pursue damages from a distracted driver. To find out more or request a consultation, please contact us today.
Call or text 678-888-2222 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form