Distracted Driving Accidents Lawyers

In today’s fast-paced world of multi-tasking, distracted driving has become a concerning and perilous issue on the roads in southern Mississippi. From texting and surfing the internet to eating, talking, grooming, or adjusting navigation systems, these distractions significantly increase the risk of accidents. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), thousands of lives are lost, and countless injuries occur each year due to distracted driving.

If you or your loved one has suffered due to a distracted driving accident in Mississippi, Boyce Holleman & Associates is here to provide you with strong legal representation. Our experienced personal injury attorneys understand the devastating impact these accidents can have and are dedicated to fighting for your rights and pursuing the largest possible financial compensation on your behalf from the negligent parties.

 

Causes of Distracted Driving in Mississippi

Distracted driving encompasses any activity that diverts a driver’s attention from the primary task of safe driving. In Mississippi, the prevalence of distracted driving incidents highlights the need for continued education, enforcement, and prevention efforts. Some of the key causes of this dangerous driving behavior include:

 

• Mobile Device Usage: The use of mobile phones while driving remains a significant contributor to distracted driving accidents in Mississippi. Despite laws prohibiting texting while driving, many individuals continue to engage in this dangerous behavior.
• Impact of Social Media: The rise of social media has introduced a new dimension of distraction on the roads. Drivers checking social media platforms, posting updates, and responding to messages significantly increase the risk of accidents.
• Young Drivers: Distracted driving tends to be more common among younger drivers who are more likely to use their smartphones and mobile devices while driving. Inexperienced drivers, combined with distractions, create a dangerous combination on the road.
• Multitasking Culture: The modern multitasking culture often blurs the lines between work, personal life, and driving. This mindset can lead to drivers attempting to handle various tasks while behind the wheel.
• Underreported Incidents: It’s important to note that distracted driving incidents may be underreported, making it even more urgent to address the issue comprehensively.

 

Mississippi’s Distracted Driving Laws to Keep the Roads Safe

Distracted driving significantly impairs a driver’s ability to react promptly to unexpected situations, putting themselves and others at risk. If you have been injured in a distracted driving accident, our personal injury lawyers at Boyce Holleman & Associates will investigate the case, collect strong evidence, and prove the liability of the at-fault driver.

We will also establish whether one or more of the following laws were violated by the liable parties:

 

Texting Ban 

Mississippi law prohibits all drivers from composing, sending, or reading text messages while operating a moving motor vehicle. This applies to all drivers, regardless of age or experience.

School Bus Drivers 

School bus drivers in Mississippi are strictly prohibited from using a mobile phone for any reason while driving, including making calls, texting, or any other form of phone-related distraction.

Novice Drivers 

For the safety of young, inexperienced drivers, Mississippi enforces a complete ban on cell phone use for novice drivers who hold an intermediate license. This restriction applies for the first year of licensure or until the driver reaches the age of 18, whichever comes first.

Local Ordinances 

Some local municipalities in Mississippi have established their own ordinances that restrict or prohibit the use of handheld electronic devices while driving. It’s important to stay informed about these local laws when traveling within the state.

 

Types of Evidence Our Attorneys Will Gather to Prove Distracted Driving

Here are some key types of evidence we will obtain to establish the negligent motorist’s distracted driving and how it resulted in your accident and injuries:

 

Cell Phone Records

One of the most significant pieces of evidence is the driver’s cell phone records. These records can provide timestamps of calls, texts, or internet activity that coincide with the time of the accident.

Witness Statements

Eyewitnesses, including other drivers on the road, who may have observed the driver engaging in distracting activities, such as texting or using their phone, can provide invaluable testimony to support your claim.

Police Reports

Police reports often include details about the accident, statements from involved parties, and observations made by the responding officers. These reports can provide insight into the circumstances leading up to the collision.

Accident Reconstructionist Reports

If necessary, we will hire accident reconstruction experts who can analyze the scene of the accident, vehicle damage, skid marks, and other factors to recreate the sequence of events. This can help establish how the accident occurred and whether distracted driving played a role.

Surveillance Footage

In cases where the distracted driving accident occurred near traffic cameras or surveillance cameras, footage from these sources can provide visual evidence of the driver’s actions leading up to the collision.

Photos and Videos

Photographs or videos taken at the scene of the accident can capture relevant details, such as the position of the vehicles, road conditions, and any visible signs of distracted driving behavior.

Social Media and Online Activity

In some cases, a driver’s social media posts or online activity may provide evidence of their actions leading up to the accident. This could include posts, photos, or timestamps that align with the time of the collision.

Expert Testimony

Experts in distracted driving behavior can provide professional opinions on the driver’s actions, the impact of distractions, and how these factors contributed to the accident.

In-Car Technology Data

Modern vehicles often have onboard technology that records driving data. This data can include information about speed, braking, and phone usage, providing additional insights into the driver’s behavior.

Cell Phone Usage Apps

Certain apps and software can track a driver’s cell phone usage, providing data about when and how often the driver interacted with their device while driving.

 

Get Our Experienced Distracted Driving Accident Lawyers on Your Side

At Boyce Holleman & Associates, we will leave no stone unturned in our pursuit of evidence that could prove the negligent party’s distracted driving as the cause of your accident and injuries. By diligently collecting and analyzing all possible evidence, we will present a comprehensive case that establishes the other driver’s negligence and responsibility.

Distracted driving accidents are preventable, and we are here to ensure that those responsible are held accountable for their negligence. Our Mississippi personal injury attorneys have a proven track record of achieving large settlements and verdicts for our clients.

Call us today at 228-863-3142 or get in touch with us online to schedule a free consultation with us.