Las Vegas Distracted Driving Accident Attorneys

With all of the electronic devices that have become so common in our lives, distracted driving has become one of the most dangerous factors on the roads. Every year, thousands of people are injured or killed by someone distracted by a device while driving. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 2,841 people were killed in 2018 by distracted drivers, including 1,730 drivers, 605 passengers, 400 pedestrians and 77 bicyclists.

What Exactly Is Distracted Driving?

The NHTSA defines distracted driving as driving a motor vehicle while doing anything that diverts your attention from the road in front of you, the traffic around you, and controlling your car. Examples include:

• Talking on your phone
• Texting on your phone
• Eating and drinking
• Talking to people in your vehicle
• Fiddling with the stereo, entertainment or navigation system

Sending or reading a text message takes about five seconds. At 55 mph, you can travel the length of a football field in that time. Taking your eyes off the road for five seconds is like driving the length of a football field blindfolded.

Nevada Laws Regarding Distracted Driving

Driving while using a handheld cell phone or texting is illegal in Nevada. The details are in Nevada Revised Statutes 484B.165. Fines have been $50 for a first offense, $100 for a second offense within seven years, and $250 for a third or subsequent offense, with additional court fees possible and fines doubled in a work zone. Demerit points can also be added to your license. Penalties can change, so check the current statute. Beyond the penalties, a driver who causes an accident while distracted can be held liable for injuries, damages and death.

Have You Been the Victim of a Distracted Driver?

You may be able to file a personal injury claim to recover compensation for your expenses. Under Nevada law, if you are injured because of another person's negligence, that person can be held liable for consequences such as medical expenses, doctor visits, drug and therapy treatments, surgeries, property repairs and more. Even if you don't think your injuries are severe, consult a qualified distracted driving attorney. Some injuries go nearly unnoticed at first, only to appear days or weeks later as serious problems requiring extensive treatment.

What to Do If You've Been Hit by a Distracted Driver

• Get proper medical attention first.
• Document as much of the accident scene as you can, and get contact information from witnesses.
• Get the other driver's license, registration and insurance information.
• Take pictures with your phone rather than trying to write down or remember details.
• If police don't arrive on their own, call them and make sure a full police report is filed.

For more steps, see What to Do After a Car Accident in Las Vegas.

Speak With a Qualified Las Vegas Distracted Driving Attorney

If you've been hurt as a driver, passenger, pedestrian or bicyclist by a distracted driver, call Cap & Kudler as soon as possible. The more time we have to investigate and develop your case, the better the chance of a good result. We have recovered millions of dollars for personal injury clients in the Las Vegas area. Your first consultation is free and completely confidential. Reach us online anytime or call (702) 878-8778.

This page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Every case is different, and you should consult a qualified attorney regarding your specific situation.