Norfolk Distracted Driving Accident Lawyer

Distracted driving is unfortunately all too common on Norfolk, VA, roads and can lead to serious injuries and wrongful death. As a Norfolk distracted driving accident lawyer, I’ve seen firsthand the devastating impact distracted driving collisions can have on injured accident victims and their families.

I’m Ed Atkinson, your dedicated Norfolk car accident lawyer, and I founded Atkinson Law with a mission to create a fresh approach to personal injury legal representation. My vision was to establish a law firm that outshines the “big reputation” firms in our region. As a result, when you choose me as your car accident lawyer, you can expect nothing less than exceptional, individualized service. Your distinct needs and worries will be given the utmost attention at every step of your legal journey. Reach out to my Norfolk office today to schedule your complimentary consultation.

Distracted Driving Is a Growing Problem in Virginia

According to Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) crash data, distracted driving resulted in more than 20,900 crashes in 2021. This number was a substantial increase from the previous year.

Common driver distractions include:

• Cell phone use (especially texting)
• Eating and drinking
• Talking to passengers
• Grooming activities
• Reading
• Checking a GPS
• Watching a video
• Adjusting the stereo

NHTSA Finding on Distracted Driving Accidents

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) makes the following notable findings:

• At any daytime moment across America, approximately 660,000 drivers use phones or interact with other handheld devices while driving.
• Engaging in visual-manual tasks associated with using phones and other handheld devices increased the risk of getting into a crash by three times.
• When texting, the average driver’s eyes are away from the road for five seconds. Maintaining a speed of 55 mph, this is enough time to drive the length of a football field.

With all of the ad campaigns against distracted driving, it should be obvious that it constitutes negligence or the failure to use ordinary care. However, this does not mean someone injured by a distracted driver will easily deal with the insurance company.

Even if a careless driver hits you while simultaneously texting, eating, and brushing their hair, their insurance company might still try to dispute liability. So when a distracted driver injures you or a loved one, you need an experienced Norfolk personal injury lawyer to handle your claim.

Injuries Sustained in Norfolk Distracted Driving Accidents

Distracted driving collisions can result in a wide range of injuries, from minor cuts and bruises to severe and life-changing conditions.

Common injuries sustained in distracted driving accidents include:

• Whiplash: This is a common injury in rear-end collisions where the head and neck are suddenly jerked forward and backward, causing damage to the neck muscles and ligaments.
• Head and brain injuries: A head injury can range from a mild concussion to a severe traumatic brain injury (TBI), which can have long-lasting effects on a person’s cognitive abilities, speech, and motor skills.
• Broken bones: High-speed crashes or collisions with fixed objects can result in broken bones, which may require surgery and extensive physical therapy.
• Spinal cord injuries: Injuries to the spinal cord can cause paralysis or limited mobility and often require long-term care and rehabilitation.
• Internal injuries: Blunt force trauma from a motor vehicle accident can result in serious injuries such as organ damage, internal bleeding, or punctured lungs.

If you’ve been involved in a motor vehicle accident, seeking medical attention is important, even if you initially feel fine. Some injuries may not manifest symptoms until days or weeks after the accident. Additionally, obtaining prompt medical care can strengthen your accident injury claim.

How a Norfolk Distracted Driving Accident Attorney Can Help With Your Case

As a Norfolk personal injury attorney who regularly handles these cases, I can help you understand your legal options after a distracted driving accident. I have the experience and knowledge to navigate the legal system and help you get a fair settlement or court award.

I can assist you with the following:

• Explaining your rights and options during your initial consultation and when there are new developments in your case
• Investigating the crash to gather evidence and determine liability
• Negotiating with insurance companies to get you the compensation you need
• Providing support and guidance through every stage of your case
• Litigating your case in court, if necessary

If you’re struggling after a distracted driving accident, don’t hesitate to ask for help. I am dedicated to helping you hold the at-fault driver and their insurer responsible for all you’ve endured.

Available Compensation in a Norfolk Distracted Driving Accident

My personal injury law firm can assist you in pursuing the maximum compensation available for your Norfolk collision. Available compensation typically covers economic and non-economic damages, including:

• Current and past medical expenses related to your injuries, including emergency room visits, surgeries, hospital stays, doctor appointments, prescription medication, and rehabilitation
• Future medical expenses due to your injuries, such as ongoing treatment, physical therapy, or long-term care
• Lost wages if your injuries prevent you from working, including any missed bonuses, promotions, or other job-related benefits
• Future earnings if your injuries prevent you from returning to work or pursuing certain career opportunities
• Property damage to your vehicle or personal belongings damaged in the accident
• Punitive damages, which may be available in cases where a drunk driver caused the collision

As an experienced personal injury lawyer, I can help you understand your legal rights and fight for the settlement or verdict you deserve.

The Statute of Limitations for Filing a Personal Injury Claim in Virginia

A “statute of limitations” is a law that sets a time limit for taking legal action in a particular situation. For example, Virginia’s statute of limitations for most personal injury cases, including automobile accidents, is two years from the accident date.

It’s important to note that if you miss the two-year deadline, you may lose your right to file a lawsuit and obtain compensation for your injuries and losses. That’s why it’s crucial to contact me immediately after an accident.

I can evaluate your case, help you understand your legal options, and ensure you meet all applicable deadlines.

Contact Atkinson Law for a Free, No-Risk Consultation

If you’ve been injured in a Norfolk car, truck, or motorcycle accident, don’t wait to seek legal help. As an experienced auto accident attorney, I am committed to holding negligent drivers responsible and helping injured victims get fair compensation.

I understand that you may be incapacitated due to your accident; I will gladly travel to meet you for your initial consultation, whether in the hospital or recovering at home. Call Atkinson Law today or complete the brief contact form to schedule your free, zero-risk case evaluation.