Safe driving requires focus and concentration, but many motorists take this responsibility lightly. Distracted driving car accidents in Mankato can lead to injuries or even death.
If you suffered harm because another driver was distracted and caused a crash, that individual may owe you compensation. Speak with an experienced auto collision attorney as soon as possible to explore your legal options.
Motorists have a duty to keep their full attention on the road when operating a vehicle. Anything that interferes with this can be considered a driving distraction and has the potential to cause a wreck in Mankato.
Minnesota Statute § 169.475 forbids drivers under 18 from using portable electronic devices for any purpose while operating a vehicle, even when stopped in traffic. Motorists over 18 may use devices for calls only in hands-free mode.
All drivers are prohibited from using electronic devices to read, write, or send electronic communications, access the internet, or use applications stored on the device while operating a vehicle.
Under Minnesota’s no-fault system, anyone injured in a crash has a claim with their own insurer, regardless of who caused the wreck. The mandatory basic economic loss coverage, sometimes called personal injury protection (PIP), covers the initial medical expenses and income loss.
If a distracted driver in Mankato causes a collision with injuries, the injured person may be able to assert a personal injury claim against the distracted driver. To be eligible to file a lawsuit against the at-fault motorist, the injured party must meet one of the following criteria:
An injured person must prove the other driver was negligent and the negligence directly caused their injuries. If the at-fault driver receives a ticket for cell phone use or distracted driving, the citation can be used as proof of negligence.
A determined personal injury attorney can review evidence, such as accident scene photographs, witness statements, and video footage, to prove fault and help determine if the driver was distracted.
Injured parties can claim their crash-related expenses, including bills not covered by health insurance. They can also claim lost income and diminished future earning capacity if the injury will prevent them from returning to their pre-crash employment.
The negligent driver is also responsible for compensating an injured person’s non-economic losses, such as:
A lawyer can help an injured person document their economic and non-economic losses to prove their claim. This information allows them to negotiate a fair settlement or, if necessary, take the case to court.
If you were injured in a distracted driving car accident, you need a reliable legal professional to help you navigate the system and obtain the compensation you deserve.
Talk to a compassionate lawyer about your legal options after a distracted driving car accident in Mankato. Our lawyers can explain the law and pursue your claim for fair compensation. Get in touch with our Southern Minnesota legal team today.
