April is Distracted Driving Awareness Month
An overwhelming majority of Americans agree: distracted driving is getting worse. In a recent national survey, 92% of respondents said drivers are looking at their phones more often now than just a year ago. Even more alarming, 1 in 10 admitted to reading or writing emails while driving — despite nearly universal awareness of the risks.
These numbers aren’t just concerning — they reflect a troubling disconnect between awareness and behavior. That disconnect turns dangerous quickly, especially on Maine roads. And during Distracted Driving Awareness Month this April, the data is a sobering reminder that education alone isn’t solving the problem.
Distracted driving accidents are on the rise, and those injured because of someone else’s inattention face a difficult road forward. Knowing what to do after a crash involving a distracted driver can make all the difference when it comes to protecting your rights and recovering full compensation.
Steps to Take Immediately After a Distracted Driving Accident
In the moments following a car crash, it can be difficult to think clearly. But if distraction played a role in the collision, certain steps become even more important. These early actions can preserve evidence and strengthen any future claim:
- Call 911 and Report the Crash: Make sure law enforcement responds to the scene. Officers may take note of distracted behavior or request phone records if distraction is suspected.
- Document Everything: Take photos of the vehicles, surroundings, skid marks, and anything else relevant. If the other driver was on their phone or seemed inattentive, make a note of it.
- Get Contact Information: Collect names, phone numbers, and insurance details from all drivers involved, as well as any witnesses who may have seen the driver using their phone.
- Seek Medical Attention: Some injuries may not be immediately obvious. Getting checked by a doctor protects your health and creates a medical record that can support your claim.
- Avoid Speculation: Provide factual information to the police, but don’t guess or make statements about fault. Let investigators — and your lawyer — handle the analysis.
- Consult an Attorney: Distracted driving is negligent driving, and if another driver's actions were responsible for a crash that caused you or someone you love to be injured, you have the right to be made whole again. A lawyer can help you navigate the legal process and fight for the fair and full compensation you deserve under Maine law.
How a Lawyer Can Prove the At-Fault Driver Was Distracted
Proving that a driver was distracted is not always straightforward. Unlike other types of crashes, distraction is a behavior — something that may not leave behind obvious physical evidence. That’s why the approach to gathering evidence in these cases needs to be more focused.
Useful evidence in a distracted driving case may include:
- Phone Records: Cell phone logs or data can confirm if the driver was sending texts or using apps at the time of the crash.
- Witness Statements: Passengers, pedestrians, or nearby drivers may have seen the at-fault driver using their phone.
- Surveillance or Dashcam Footage: Cameras from businesses, homes, or vehicles may have captured the moment of distraction.
- Police Report Notations: If the responding officer noted any signs of inattention, such as failure to brake, inconsistent statements, or visible phone use, that can support the claim.
In many cases, this type of evidence must be requested quickly through legal channels. An experienced attorney can issue subpoenas and preserve relevant data before it’s deleted or becomes inaccessible.
Filing a Claim After a Distracted Driving Crash
Once immediate medical needs have been addressed and evidence begins to come together, the next step is often filing a personal injury claim. These claims are intended to hold the distracted driver accountable and secure compensation for the harm caused.
In Maine, a successful claim may include compensation for:
- Medical Expenses: Including emergency care, surgery, follow-up visits, and ongoing treatment.
- Lost Wages and Earning Capacity: If injuries prevent a return to work or affect long-term employment.
- Pain and Suffering: Physical pain, emotional distress, and the broader impact on daily life.
- Property Damage: Repair or replacement of the vehicle and other personal property.
Distracted driving cases can be complicated by insurance company tactics that downplay the seriousness of injuries or try to shift blame. Having legal representation can level the playing field and ensure that the victim’s side of the story is fully heard.
We Win Big For Injured Mainers—Over $100 Million Recovered
Jabar LaLiberty, LLC offers free consultations to anyone seriously hurt in a Maine car accident involving a distracted driver. With offices in Portland and Waterville, our law firm provides experienced legal representation that injured Mainers trust.
If distraction played a role in your crash, you need to act fast to protect your rights. Give us a call or contact us online to find out how a distracted driving accident lawyer can help you demand accountability and fight for the results you deserve.
"I was in a car accident. I went online and found Attorney Jabar. I called and left a message, and they got back quickly. They have been so great with all the work that was done with my accident issues. Keeping me updated, making sure that all paperwork needed was taken care of, and keeping me in the loop. Their office personnel was the best I have ever dealt with. I am very appreciative of all the hard work they have done for me, over time, helping me with this situation. I would refer anyone to this office to assist them with their issues." - Reene G., ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐