Distracted Driving Lawyer in Scottsdale

Keeping You Safe

We’ve all allowed our attention to wander away from the road while driving. Sometimes, it’s because the baby in the backseat starts fussing, or there is an amber alert that startles everyone, or there’s a phone call you just can’t ignore. You should pay attention to the road, but it’s just one second, right? And in that second, everything changes. A pedestrian comes from around a corner, another car runs a stop sign, or you may not notice the light change. Regardless of the reason, distracted driving causes accidents. And those accidents can be life-changing, even fatal.

Suppose you or a loved one have been impacted by a distracted driving accident in Scottsdale. In that case, you need a dedicated and compassionate legal team to walk you through the complexities of Arizona’s personal injury and traffic laws. At Wilson Ortiz Law Firm, we believe in giving every client personal service and robust legal services to get them the compensation they deserve for the pain and suffering they have endured. Call us at 623-294-1442 to schedule a free consultation. We will be your voice.

What Is Distracted Driving?

Anything can cause a driver to become distracted. Sometimes, it’s as simple as a good song playing on the radio. Our attention spans are programmed to be constantly divided in today’s fast-paced world. It is little wonder that modern people have difficulty focusing on tasks such as driving. Nonetheless, that does not remove the danger.

There are three common types of distracted driving:

Manual Distractions

Manual distractions are any kind of distraction that causes the driver to take their hands off the wheel. Things such as:

Eating or drinking
Searching for items in the center console, purse, backpack, or backseat.

Visual Distractions

Visual distractions include anything that requires you to take your eyes off the road, such as:

Looking for items dropped on the floor of your vehicle
Checking you GPS
Trying to read a paper map/directions
Watching media

Cognitive Distractions

Cognitive distractions are anything that takes your mind off the road. The biggest culprits in this arena are text messaging and phone calls. It is best to silence your phone while driving to the temptation altogether.

What Are Some Common Causes of Distracted Driving

Most people think texting or phone calls is the number one cause of distracted driving. Still, according to studies by Safestart, the most common cause of distracted driving accidents is drivers being “lost in thought” and “daydreaming.” These incidents account for around 62% of distracted driving accidents.

To break it down further:

62% of driving fatalities were a result of the driver’s mind wandering, causing a collision.
12% were caused by cellphone use, even hands-free. It’s still possible to be distracted by the conversation.
7% were caused by something known as rubbernecking. This happens when the driver is distracted by something outside the vehicle, like a car accident or another vehicle stopped by law enforcement.
5% were caused by distractions from other passengers in the vehicle.
2% were caused by drivers reaching for something
2% were caused because the driver was messing with console controls
2% were caused because the driver was eating or drinking
1% were caused because the driver was smoking
1% were caused by the driver moving something in the car, like a pet, or trying to deal with something like a trapped insect.
1% were caused by the driver messing with the vehicle’s seatbelt, mirrors, or other safety equipment.

The numbers don’t lie. Distracted driving is a problem in Arizona. If you or a loved one have been impacted by an accident caused by distracted driving, we understand the frustration fighting for compensation can bring. The personal injury attorneys of Wilson Ortiz Law Firm are on your side and will fight for you.

What is Arizona’s “Hand’s Off” Law?

Arizona’s “Hand’s Off” law prohibits using a stand-alone cellphone, tablet, or gaming device unless it is in the “hands-free” mode while driving. A driver may not physically touch their device, including holding it between their head and shoulder. Using Bluetooth devices or cellphones in an emergency or reporting a crime is permitted.

What Are Some of the Penalties for Distracted Driving in Scottsdale?

As of January 1, 2021, an automatic ticket is given if law enforcement observes you using or holding a cell phone or electronic device while driving. The current penalties are:

First violation-$75-$149
Second or subsequent violation- $150-$250

Distracted Driving is a Primary Offense

Although the fines may seem insignificant, and many consider using a cell phone while driving no big deal, AZDPS disagrees. Distracted driving is a primary offense in Arizona, and officers don’t need any other reason to pull you over to give you a ticket.

When Should I Call a Distracted Driving Attorney

Distracted driving accidents are terrifying events that can have devastating consequences. When you are involved in such an accident, knowing when to call a distracted driving lawyer is crucial. At Wilson Ortiz Law Firm, we represent those injured or affected by distracted driving accidents.

Our compassionate attorneys understand the stress and trauma distracted driving accidents can bring. We know that not only victims are affected, but the entire family and care team are involved, especially if you have been unable to work. It can be particularly traumatic if you go from being the primary breadwinner to being permanently disabled. The adjustment is difficult. Our lawyers are here to help you maneuver through the maze before you.

We will work diligently at Wilson Ortiz Law Firm to hold the responsible party accountable. Call 623-294-1442 for a free consultation.