Distracted driving in Chicago encompasses any activity that diverts attention from driving, including talking or texting on your phone, eating and drinking, talking to people in your vehicle, fiddling with the stereo, entertainment, or navigation system – anything that takes your attention away from the task of safe driving.
The consequences are often dire, leading to significant injuries or even fatalities. Despite widespread awareness campaigns, distracted driving remains one of the leading causes of auto accidents.
If you have been the victim of a distracted driving accident, you may be entitled to compensation. Auto accident attorneys in Chicago, like Roger D. Rudich, Ltd., can help you fight for the justice and damages you deserve.
What Is Distracted Driving?
Distracted driving is any activity that takes a driver’s focus away from the primary task of operating their vehicle. This significantly increases the probability of accidents.
Distracted driving can take three main forms:
- Visual Distractions: These involve anything that causes a driver to take their eyes off the road, such as looking at a phone or adjusting the radio.
- Manual Distractions: These occur when a driver removes their hands from the wheel, like reaching for an object or eating.
- Cognitive Distractions: These take a driver’s mental focus away from the road, as when engaged in a conversation or daydreaming.
Distracted driving is a major factor in car accidents across the United States. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that thousands of people are killed each year in crashes involving distracted drivers.
Distracted Driving Laws in Illinois
Illinois recognizes the severe consequences of distracted driving and has enacted strict laws to protect its drivers. Here’s a breakdown of these laws:
- Handheld Cellphone Ban: All drivers in Illinois are prohibited from using handheld cellphones for any reason while operating a vehicle. This includes texting, talking, using apps, or engaging in any other activity that requires holding the phone.
- Age-Based Restrictions: Drivers under the age of 19 face even stricter restrictions. They are completely prohibited from using any cellphone device, including hands-free options such as Bluetooth headsets while driving.
- Exceptions: There are limited exceptions to the cellphone ban. Drivers may use their phones in hands-free mode to report emergencies or if they are lawfully parked on the side of the road.
- Penalties: Violating distracted driving laws in Illinois can result in hefty fines. Notably, if a distracted driving violation leads to an accident causing great bodily harm, permanent disability, or disfigurement, the offense escalates to a Class A misdemeanor. If it results in death, it becomes a Class 4 felony, underscoring the serious consequences of distracted driving.
Illinois employs primary enforcement of these laws, meaning police officers can stop and cite drivers solely for distracted driving offenses. The state’s approach to combating distracted driving is comprehensive, targeting a range of distractions to enhance road safety.
Common Distracted Driving Behaviors
While texting and driving is perhaps the most well-known form of distracted driving, there are many other dangerous behaviors drivers engage in, including:
- Talking on the phone (even hands-free)
- Eating and drinking
- Adjusting the radio/entertainment system
- Using navigation systems
- Interacting with passengers
- Applying makeup or grooming
- Daydreaming
This list highlights just how pervasive distracted driving has become. Let’s hold ourselves and others accountable for making safe choices.
Damages for Distracted Driving Injuries
Injuries sustained from a distracted driving accident can be severe and life-altering. If you’re a victim, Roger Rudich can help you seek compensation for:
- Medical Expenses: This includes both past and future medical bills related to the accident, such as hospital stays, surgeries, medications, physical therapy, and ongoing care.
- Lost Wages: If you miss work due to your injuries, those lost wages can be recovered.
- Lost Earning Capacity: If your injuries permanently impact your ability to work, you can seek compensation for loss of future income.
- Pain and Suffering: Accidents can inflict physical and emotional trauma. You may be entitled to compensation for both types of suffering.
- Property Damage: Costs associated with repairing or replacing your damaged vehicle may be recoverable.
If you have been injured in a distracted driving accident, our experienced lawyer at Roger D. Rudich, Ltd. is here to advocate on your behalf. Our accident attorney in North Center Chicago has a proven track record of securing fair compensation for clients. He understands the challenges you may be facing and is deeply committed to helping you through the entire legal process.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation. Let us fight for your rights while you focus on healing.
