Rock Hill Distracted Driver Accident Lawyer
Every day, drivers in Rock Hill face serious risks from distracted drivers on the road. Whether it is texting, eating, putting on makeup, or fiddling with the radio, taking your eyes and mind off the task of driving for even a few seconds dramatically increases the chances of a devastating accident occurring.
Under South Carolina law, driving while distracted is considered negligent behavior that can leave at-fault drivers liable for injuries and property damage they cause. If you or a loved one has been injured by a distracted driver in Rock Hill or the surrounding areas, the experienced Rock Hill distracted driving accident attorney at The Stanley Law Group can fight for the full compensation you deserve.
The Prevalence and Dangers of Distracted Driving in Rock Hill
Despite widespread public awareness campaigns about the risks, distracted driving continues to be a major problem on the roads in and around Rock Hill. In 2022, there were 281 crashes in York County involving a distracted driver, resulting in 3 fatalities and 88 injuries, according to data from the South Carolina Department of Public Safety.
Any activity that takes a driver’s eyes off the road, hands off the wheel, or mind off the act of driving is considered a dangerous distraction. Common examples include:
- Texting or using a cellphone
- Eating or drinking
- Adjusting music or vehicle controls
- Putting on makeup or grooming
- Reading or looking at maps
Even taking your eyes off the road for just 5 seconds at 55 mph is like driving the length of an entire football field blindfolded. The results can be catastrophic crashes, severe injuries like broken bones, head trauma, spinal cord injuries, and even wrongful death.
Rock Hill Distracted Driving Laws
In an effort to curb distracted driving, South Carolina has enacted laws prohibiting certain dangerous behaviors:
- Hand-held cellphone use is banned for drivers with a beginner’s permit or license
- Texting while driving is illegal for all drivers
- School bus drivers are prohibited from using cellphones while operating the bus
However, drivers can still legally use hands-free devices and engage in other distracting activities behind the wheel. Ultimately, it is up to each individual driver to make responsible choices and stay focused on operating their vehicle safely at all times.
Damages in South Carolina Distracted Driver Accident Cases
In South Carolina, distracted drivers who cause injury accidents can be held liable for compensatory damages, which are intended to make victims “whole” again after their losses. This can include economic damages like:
- Past and future medical expenses
- Lost earnings and earning capacity
- Property damage and repair costs
- Out-of-pocket expenses related to the accident
Victims can also recover non-economic damages for their subjective losses, such as:
- Physical pain and suffering
- Emotional distress and mental anguish
- Scarring, disfigurement, or disability
- Loss of enjoyment of life
Contact the Rock Hill Distracted Driver Accident Lawyers at The Stanley Law Group Today
If you or a loved one has suffered injuries in distracted driving, the experienced Rock Hill distracted driving accident lawyers at The Stanley Law Group are ready to advocate aggressively for the maximum compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free, no-obligation consultation.