Distracted driving accidents happen fast, but their consequences last. A moment of inattention can cause life-changing injuries, expensive medical bills, and ongoing pain. Holding the distracted driver accountable isn’t always easy—proving negligence takes legal experience and solid evidence.
California has some of the strictest distracted driving laws in the country. Drivers cannot use handheld devices while behind the wheel, regardless of whether they are stopped at a light or in slow-moving traffic. This includes texting, browsing, or even holding a phone while talking. Law enforcement takes these violations seriously, especially if distraction leads to a crash.
Repeat offenders face higher fines, potential license points, and increased insurance premiums. For drivers under 18, any use of a phone while driving—even hands-free—is illegal. In accidents where distraction is suspected, police reports, traffic camera footage, and cell phone records can be used as evidence to hold the at-fault driver accountable.
Proving a driver was distracted at the time of an accident requires strong evidence. Insurance companies and courts want solid proof—not just assumptions.
Type of Evidence | How It Helps Your Case |
Cell phone records | Show if the driver was texting, calling, or using data at the time of the crash. |
Eyewitness statements | Passengers, pedestrians, or other drivers can confirm the driver was not focused. |
Traffic or dash cam footage | Video may capture the driver looking away, using a phone, or engaging in another distraction. |
Police reports | Officers may note signs of distraction or cite the driver for violations. |
Accident reconstruction | Experts analyze skid marks, impact points, and reaction times to determine if distraction was a factor. |
Yes, distracted driving accidents are covered by insurance, but that doesn’t mean getting a payout will be easy. The at-fault driver’s insurance should cover damages, but you should expect delays, lowball offers, or outright denials.
There are several different factors that can be distracting for drivers, but every distraction reduces reaction time and increases the risk of an accident. Some distractions take eyes off the road, others take hands off the wheel, and some cause mental lapses that make it hard to focus.
Any of these can lead to devastating crashes, especially at high speeds or in heavy traffic.
Distracted driving isn’t limited to cars. E-scooter riders also cause serious accidents when they don’t pay attention to their surroundings. Many riders focus on their phones, listen to music with both earbuds in, or navigate busy streets without watching for traffic signals.
E-scooter laws in Los Angeles are still evolving, but distracted riding can be just as dangerous as distracted driving.
Proving a driver was distracted at the time of an accident takes strong evidence and legal expertise. Insurance companies rarely admit fault, and without solid proof, they may deny claims or offer low settlements. A distracted driving attorney knows what to look for and how to hold negligent drivers accountable.
Waiting to take action can hurt your case. The longer a claim sits, the harder it becomes to gather evidence and prove liability. If a distracted driver caused your accident, legal help is available.
The LA Law Firm helps victims fight for fair compensation. Call today for a free consultation and find out what your case is worth.
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