Lawrence Distracted Driving Car Accident Lawyer

Most drivers don’t start their day intending to cause a crash. But in Lawrence, Indiana—and across the country—many accidents result from a few seconds of distraction. A buzzing phone, a spilled coffee, or an urgent glance at GPS directions can turn an ordinary moment into a catastrophe. If you’ve been injured, a Lawrence distracted driving car accident lawyer can help protect your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve.

As Lawrence car accident lawyers, we see the devastation these choices leave behind: totaled vehicles, injured victims, and grieving families. What makes distracted driving particularly tragic is that it is almost always preventable.

Distracted driving is not a harmless habit or a modern inconvenience—it’s a leading cause of injury and death on Indiana roads. Nationally, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reported that distracted driving killed 3,308 people in 2022 and injured hundreds of thousands more. In our own community of Lawrence, IN, distracted drivers cause accidents that result in broken bones, spinal trauma, traumatic brain injuries, and worse.

If you’ve been injured because someone else took their eyes off the road, we’re here to help. As your trusted car wreck lawyer in Lawrence, we’ll walk you through the process of getting the compensation you deserve while holding negligent drivers accountable.

What Counts as Distracted Driving?

Many people associate distracted driving solely with texting, but it includes any activity that diverts a driver’s attention from the road. These distractions fall into three categories:

• Visual distractions take your eyes off the road—like reading a message or looking at a GPS.
• Manual distractions take your hands off the wheel—such as eating, adjusting the stereo, or reaching for something in the car.
• Cognitive distractions take your mind off driving—even daydreaming or an emotional phone call can fall into this category.

Texting while driving is particularly dangerous because it combines all three types of distraction. According to the Indiana Criminal Justice Institute, drivers using a phone are nearly four times more likely to crash than those paying attention.

Indiana’s Hands-Free Law: A Step in the Right Direction

Indiana enacted a hands-free driving law in 2020 to combat rising distracted driving rates. Under this law, drivers are prohibited from holding or using a mobile phone while driving, unless they use hands-free technology like Bluetooth or voice commands.

Here are the key aspects of Indiana’s hands-free law:

• Drivers cannot hold a phone while operating a motor vehicle.
• Phones may be used if mounted and operated hands-free.
• The only exception is to call 911 in an emergency.
• Violators may face fines and points on their license.

The law aims to reduce visual and manual distractions behind the wheel. Yet even with the law, many drivers in Lawrence, IN, still engage in distracted behaviors. If one of those drivers causes an accident, our role as a Lawrence, IN, accident attorney is to ensure they are held financially responsible for the harm they caused.

The Real Cost of a Distracted Driving Accident

Distracted driving accidents can lead to devastating injuries, even at low speeds. Victims often suffer from:

• Traumatic brain injuries
• Neck and spinal cord injuries
• Broken bones
• Internal bleeding
• Whiplash and soft tissue injuries
• Emotional trauma and PTSD

Medical treatment can last for months or even years. Some injuries never fully heal. On top of physical pain, accident victims deal with medical expenses, lost income, property damage, and the psychological toll of the crash.

Our job as your auto accident attorney in Lawrence is to pursue every dollar of compensation you’re entitled to. That includes coverage for emergency care, hospitalization, physical therapy, long-term disability, pain and suffering, mental anguish, and future loss of income.

Proving Distracted Driving in Your Case

Proving that the other driver was distracted during the crash can be challenging, but it’s not impossible. We use multiple strategies to establish fault and prove negligence, including:

• Cell Phone Records: Subpoenaing the at-fault driver’s phone records can show calls, texts, or data use during the crash.
• Witness Testimony: Passengers, pedestrians, or other motorists may have seen the driver using their phone or being inattentive.
• Police Reports: Officers trained to investigate distracted driving often note signs of phone use or other distractions in the crash report.
• Vehicle Data: Many modern vehicles contain event data recorders (EDRs), which can provide valuable insight into what the driver was doing before the crash.
• Video Surveillance: Traffic cameras, dash cams, and nearby business security footage can provide direct evidence of distracted behavior.

We combine this evidence with strong legal arguments to build a compelling claim on your behalf.

Vaughn Knows What You Are Going Through

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Time Is Not On Your Side After An Accident. Call Vaughn Wamsley NOW.

317-846-1080

Insurance Companies Will Try to Downplay Your Claim

Even when the fault seems obvious, insurance companies rarely make it easy to recover full compensation. Their adjusters are trained to minimize payouts and may argue that you were partially at fault or that your injuries aren’t as serious as you claim.

If you accept a low settlement, you may be paying out of pocket for expenses your compensation should have covered. That’s why working with a car wreck lawyer in Lawrence who understands these tactics and how to push back is critical.

We handle all negotiations on your behalf so that you can focus on healing. If the insurer refuses to be fair, we’re ready to take your case to court.

How Indiana’s Comparative Fault Law Could Impact Your Case

Indiana uses a modified comparative fault rule. This means you can still recover damages even if you were partially at fault for the accident—as long as your share of fault is less than 51%. However, your compensation will be reduced by the percentage of your fault.

For example, if your total damages are $100,000 and you’re found to be 20% at fault, your compensation would be reduced to $80,000.

Because of this law, insurance companies often try to shift as much blame as possible onto the victim. That’s why working with a skilled Lawrence distracted driving car accident lawyer is essential. We gather evidence to counter these claims and ensure your role in the accident is fairly represented.

Why Choose Our Law Firm

We proudly serve the Lawrence, IN, community and bring a personalized, aggressive approach to each case we handle. When you work with us, you’re not just hiring an auto accident attorney in Lawrence—you’re gaining a team who is committed to your recovery and success.

Here’s what sets us apart:

• Decades of Combined Experience: We’ve handled hundreds of car accident cases throughout Indiana and understand how to deal with insurance companies, defense attorneys, and judges.
• Results-Oriented Approach: We don’t just file claims—we develop strategies. Every case begins with a detailed investigation and ends with seeking maximum compensation.
• No Upfront Fees: You don’t pay us unless we win your case. We work on a contingency fee basis so that every accident victim can access legal help without worrying about cost.
• Community Commitment: As Lawrence residents, we care deeply about road safety and the well-being of our neighbors. When distracted drivers harm people in our community, we take it personally.

What to Expect When You Contact Us

We understand that reaching out to a lawyer can be intimidating. From the moment you contact our office, we do everything possible to make the process stress-free and straightforward. Here’s how it works:

1. Free Consultation: We’ll discuss your case, answer your questions, and explain your legal options—at no cost.
2. Investigation: If you decide to proceed, we will immediately investigate the crash and collect evidence.
3. Medical Coordination: If you still need care, we can help connect you with trusted doctors and specialists.
4. Negotiation: We handle all communication with insurers, adjusters, and third parties.
5. Litigation (if needed): If a fair settlement isn’t possible, we’re prepared to file a lawsuit and take your case to trial.
6. Resolution: Whether by settlement or court verdict, our goal is to get you full and fair compensation.

Damages You Can Recover After a Distracted Driving Accident

You may be entitled to several types of compensation depending on the specifics of your case. These damages can include:

• Medical bills (past and future)
• Lost income and loss of earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Property damage
• Disability or disfigurement
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Wrongful death damages (if a loved one was killed)

We thoroughly evaluate every possible recovery source to ensure nothing is left on the table.

Preventing Distracted Driving in Our Community

Our mission as attorneys goes beyond individual cases. We’re dedicated to raising awareness and promoting change. Whenever we hold a distracted driver accountable, we send a clear message: negligence on the road has consequences.

We encourage all Lawrence drivers to take the following steps:

• Put your phone on Do Not Disturb before driving
• Set GPS directions and playlists before starting the car
• Avoid eating or grooming while driving
• Pull over if you need to make a call or handle a distraction
• Talk to teen drivers about the risks of distraction

By promoting safe driving habits and pushing for stronger enforcement of Indiana’s distracted driving laws, we can make our roads safer for everyone.

When to Call a Lawrence Distracted Driving Car Accident Lawyer

Timing matters after an accident. Indiana has a two-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims. If you wait too long, you may lose your right to recover damages. The sooner you reach out, the sooner we can begin preserving evidence, talking to witnesses, and protecting your rights.

Whether your injuries are minor or severe, your life has been disrupted, and you deserve support and justice. We’re here to guide you every step of the way.

Frequently Asked Questions About Distracted Driving Accidents in Lawrence, IN

Can I sue if the other driver wasn’t cited for distracted driving?

Yes. A police citation is helpful, but not required to file a personal injury claim. Even if the other driver was not ticketed, you can still pursue compensation if there is evidence that they were distracted and that distraction caused the crash. We can help gather the necessary proof to support your case.

What if I was partially at fault for the accident?

Indiana follows a modified comparative fault rule. You can still recover compensation if you are less than 51% responsible for the accident. However, your award will be reduced by your percentage of fault. We work to minimize any blame unfairly placed on you by the insurance company or the defense.

How long does it take to settle a distracted driving accident case?

Every case is different. Some cases settle within a few months, while others—especially those involving serious injuries or disputed liability—can take a year or more. We’ll work as efficiently as possible while ensuring we don’t accept a low offer to close your case quickly.

Can I recover damages for emotional distress?

Yes. In Indiana, emotional distress is considered a form of non-economic damage. If the accident caused anxiety, depression, PTSD, or a significant disruption to your emotional well-being, we will factor that into your claim.

What should I do if the insurance company contacts me directly?

Do not provide a recorded statement or accept any settlement offer without speaking to an attorney. Insurance adjusters may get you to admit fault or minimize your injuries. Let us handle all communications so your rights are fully protected.

If you have other questions about your distracted driving accident, we encourage you to reach out for a free consultation.

Call Us Our Lawrence Distracted Driving Car Accident Lawyer Today

If a distracted driver caused your accident, let us help you fight back. As experienced Lawrence distracted driving car accident lawyers, we have the resources, knowledge, and dedication to pursue justice on your behalf.

Call our office or complete our online form to schedule your free consultation. There is no obligation and no fee unless we recover compensation for you.

We’re ready to stand by your side and won’t back down until you get the justice you deserve.