Distracted Driving Accident Steps to Take After an Accident

You are not alone in feeling shaken, hurt, and confused by a distracted driving accident. You must know the distracted driving accident steps to take after an accident, including medical evaluation and evidence collection, as they’ll affect any future insurance claims and legal actions that may arise.

Arizona law holds negligent drivers accountable for their reckless actions, but victims must take the necessary steps to prove their injuries and protect their right to financial compensation.

Hire a Distracted Driving Accident Lawyer

At Bleaman Law Firm, P.C., we bring more than 23 years of experience representing victims of distracted driving accidents across Arizona. Our legal team understands the legal and practical steps necessary to protect clients’ rights after a crash. Recognized for trusted advocacy and proven results, we provide clear guidance through insurance claims and, when needed, litigation.

Seek Immediate Medical Attention

Seek immediate medical attention if you have been injured in a distracted driving accident. Some of the more serious injuries may not be immediately noticeable. Things like whiplash or internal injuries can get much worse in the time following the accident. Seeing a doctor as soon as possible can help protect your health and help prove the injuries were a result of the accident.

Medical records are an important form of evidence for insurance or legal claims. If the doctor recommends certain care or follow-up visits, follow their instructions. A timely diagnosis and treatment enhance both your recovery process and support a claim for appropriate compensation.

Report the Accident to Law Enforcement

Reporting your distracted driving accident to the police is an important first step. Police officers will arrive at the scene to file a crash report, collect driver information, and may document any apparent signs of distraction. This report is essential in determining fault for your insurance company or during legal action.

If the accident is not reported, it can create unnecessary hurdles for your case, possibly making it difficult to establish negligence. Make sure you request a copy of the report. This serves as valuable support in protecting your rights following the accident.

Gather Evidence at the Scene

If you can, it’s a good idea to collect as much evidence at the scene of a distracted driving accident as possible. Photographs of cars, roadways, traffic lights, and any visible injuries can be beneficial. Record the names and contact information of witnesses who saw the crash. Make a note of anything suspicious you saw the other driver doing before the crash, such as holding a cell phone or looking off the road.

This could come in handy later when you need to prove the other driver was negligent. The more evidence you collect, the better chance you have of building a successful claim. Collecting and preserving evidence right after the accident can help you protect your rights to pursue the maximum amount of compensation for your injuries and other losses.

Protect Your Legal Rights After the Accident

If you were involved in a distracted driving crash, it’s important to protect your legal rights. Submit a claim with your insurance company as soon as possible, but be cautious when talking to them because they may try to pay you less. Document all medical bills, repair invoices, and lost wages. Resist the urge to post about your accident on social media because the insurance company or the other party may try to use your statements against you.

According to the Arizona Department of Transportation’s 2023 Crash Facts Report, 237,942 drivers were involved in motor vehicle crashes in the state. Of that total, 181,110 were reported as not being distracted, while the remaining 56,832 were reported as being distracted.

Hiring a Chandler distracted driving accident lawyer is key because they can help you understand deadlines, preserve evidence, and file a claim for the full compensation you deserve. By taking these steps early on, you can redirect your focus toward your recovery and safeguard your financial and legal interests following a serious collision.

FAQs

What Should I Do Immediately After a Distracted Driving Accident?

As soon as you’re in a distracted driving accident in Arizona, you should assess any injuries and call 911 for medical assistance. Calling the police to file a report and seeking medical care both help create an official record of your injuries.

If possible, it’s also a good idea to take photos of the scene, collect witness information, and obtain the contact information from the other driver involved. This can help safeguard your health while strengthening your legal claim.

Should I Speak With the Other Driver’s Insurance Company?

You should be very wary of talking to the other driver’s insurance company after a distracted driving accident. Adjusters may try to lead you with questions or push you into early settlements to pay less on your claim than you deserve.

Anything you say can be used against you in the future. You should limit your communication until you know your rights, and, if possible, talk to an attorney to make sure you aren’t inadvertently sabotaging your case.

What Evidence Helps Prove That Distracted Driving Caused the Crash?

Clear evidence that distracted driving was the cause of the crash consists of cellphone records, video surveillance, witness testimony, and the police report. Photographs of the vehicles, traffic lights, or the roadway itself can also help you prove your case. Obtaining accurate evidence as soon as possible makes it easier to prove liability and secure fair compensation for your injuries.

Why Is Medical Documentation Important After an Accident?

Distracted driving accident medical records are evidence of the injuries you claim to have sustained in a car accident. Insurance adjusters and the court will look closely at medical records to decide if and how much they should compensate you.

Even if you experience only mild pain, seek immediate medical attention. Make all follow-up appointments, as these show a continued course of treatment and the continuing impact of the accident on your life.

Contact an Arizona Distracted Driving Accident Lawyer

Acting appropriately after a distracted driving accident can help preserve your health, strengthen your claim, and protect your right to fair compensation. This may involve medical treatment, gathering evidence, and other crucial steps.

At Bleaman Law Firm, P.C., we support victims during this challenging time with legal support and trusted advocacy. Our attorneys focus on protecting your rights while pursuing the compensation that you deserve. Call us today to learn more about how we can help with legal support after a crash.

Arizona Distracted Driving Accident Resources:

• Texting and Driving in Arizona
• Arizona Distracted Driving Laws and Penalties