Phillipsburg Distracted Driving Accident Lawyer

Phillipsburg Distracted Driving Accident Attorney

Traffic accidents from distracted drivers can cause serious harm and significant damage. When you’ve been injured by another person’s negligent actions, it leaves you feeling anxious. High medical bills, lost wages, and the need to repair or replace your vehicle can leave you overwhelmed. A Phillipsburg, NJ, distracted driver accident lawyer can help you manage this difficult situation.

Hire a Distracted Driving Accident Lawyer

When you’ve been involved in a car accident, you want to hire a distracted driving accident lawyer who understands what you’re going through. At Santini Personal Injury & Car Accident Law, we know how disruptive experiencing a car accident can be. We work with small caseloads, so each client gets the individualized attention their case deserves. With over 16 years of trial experience, Attorney Santini is ready to negotiate or litigate to get you a fair settlement.

Crash Statistics for Warren County

Traffic accidents can happen anytime, but they are more likely during peak hours when conditions are the most congested. In Phillipsburg, traffic conditions can be dangerous along Memorial Parkway, Walnut Street, Route 22, and near the riverfront. The New Jersey Department of Transportation releases crash reports by county each year. In 2023, Warren County had a total of 1,846 crashes. Of those crashes:

• 331 resulted in injuries
• 11 resulted in a fatality
• 5 were the result of a mobile device

If you experience a car accident in Phillipsburg, you may have to file a case in civil court to receive fair compensation. You can file in the Warren County Superior Court located in Belvidere.

Common Types of Distracted Driving

Texting while driving has become a serious problem, but many forms of distracted driving create potentially dangerous scenarios. There are three main categories of distracted driving:

• Visual distractions. Any situation that requires you to look away from the road.
• Manual distractions. Any time you remove your hands from the steering wheel.
• Cognitive distractions. Any situation where you are mentally focused on something other than driving.

Types of Car Accident Compensation

After a car accident in Phillipsburg, it can be confusing to determine which expenses can be reimbursed from your insurance carrier and if you are allowed to file a claim against the at-fault driver. A knowledgeable distracted driving accident attorney can guide you through the process and help you receive a fair settlement. In general, two categories of compensation can be awarded after a car accident, which are:

• Economic damages are generally tangible losses that have easily calculated values. These damages include lost wages, medical expenses, and the cost of replacing or repairing damaged property. Keeping medical records and other documentation can help when filing a claim for economic damages.
• Non-economic damages are non-tangible losses that are difficult to assign a monetary value. Reimbursement for pain and suffering and the loss of enjoyment of life can be sought. Keeping a journal of how the accident has affected your day-to-day life and the testimony of family and friends can demonstrate how your life has been impacted.

Punitive Damages in a Distracted Driving Accident Case

Punitive damages are awarded in situations where the at-fault driver’s actions are particularly reckless or wanton. Punitive damages are designed to punish the at-fault driver and act as a deterrent to others. Punitive damage awards follow certain guidelines:

• They must be requested in the complaint
• Compensatory damages must be awarded before punitive damages can be considered
• Punitive damages are capped at five times the compensatory damages or $350,000, whichever is greater

FAQs About Phillipsburg, NJ Distracted Driving Accident Laws

Can You Talk on a Hands-free Device While Driving in New Jersey?

You can use a hands-free device while driving in New Jersey, but it is discouraged, as it can still be a distraction. You are not allowed to talk or text on a handheld device and can face consequences. A first offense is a minimum $200 fine, a second offense is a minimum $400 fine, and a third offense is a $600 minimum fine plus a 90-day driver’s license suspension.

Can I Use My Phone for Navigation While Driving in New Jersey?

New Jersey driving laws do allow for the use of navigation programs on phones while you are driving if you follow specific requirements. Your phone must be mounted securely. You can only interact with your phone through hands-free methods. Using voice activation or a hands-free listening device is allowed. You do have to enter your destination before you start driving to avoid touching the screen while you are driving.

What Are Examples of Distracted Driving in New Jersey?

In New Jersey, distracted driving is any activity that pulls your focus away from driving. Normal activities like changing the radio station, adjusting mirrors, or changing the temperature can be distracting. Common examples of distracted driving include talking or texting on a mobile device, applying makeup or other personal grooming behaviors, reading, searching for a lost or loose item in the car, talking with passengers, looking at people outside of the vehicle, eating, drinking, or smoking.

Do I Need a Lawyer After a Distracted Driving Accident in New Jersey?

You are not legally required to get a lawyer after a distracted driving accident in New Jersey, but there are some benefits. New Jersey distracted driving accident laws can be complicated. The types of compensation you could claim are dependent on the type of car insurance you have. You may have to prove the other driver was negligent, which can be difficult without the assistance of an experienced attorney.

How is Negligence Established in a Distracted Driving Accident Case?

To establish negligence after a distracted driving accident, it is necessary to demonstrate that the at-fault driver violated their duty of care to the other drivers on the road. Engaging in distracted driving is considered a breach of duty. You also must demonstrate that their breach of care directly caused or contributed to the accident. There must also be demonstrable damages that have resulted from the accident.

Phillipsburg Distracted Driving Accident Lawyer

New Jersey distracted driving accident laws can be complicated. Receiving a fair settlement requires a dedicated Phillipsburg distracted driving attorney who can ensure your rights and interests are being met. Contact Santini Personal Injury & Car Accident Law today to schedule your initial consultation.