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Common Injuries From Distracted Driving

In fiscal year 2023, the Arkansas State Police Highway Safety Office issued 1,146 distracted driving citations, a significant increase from prior years. At the national level, distracted driving led to about 8 percent of all fatal crashes, and in Arkansas, there were at least 13 distracted-driving-related fatalities in 2023.

Collisions caused by driver distraction also lead to life-altering harm, including:

Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)

A violent blow to the head can disrupt normal brain function, leading to memory loss, cognitive difficulties, and long-term neurological issues. TBIs often require extensive rehabilitation and may cause permanent disability.

Spinal cord injuries and paralysis

When the spine is damaged, victims may lose mobility or sensation below the point of injury. These injuries frequently result in partial or complete paralysis and dramatically change a person’s daily life.

Broken bones

High-impact crashes can fracture arms, legs, ribs, and other bones, sometimes requiring surgery, plates, or pins to stabilize healing. Severe breaks may leave lasting pain or reduced mobility.

Internal injuries

Trauma from a collision can cause organ damage or internal bleeding, which may not be immediately visible. Without prompt medical treatment, these injuries can quickly become life-threatening.

Severe lacerations and disfigurement

Shattered glass, twisted metal, or roadway impact can cause deep cuts, scarring, or permanent disfigurement. These injuries often involve reconstructive surgery and long-term physical and emotional recovery.

What Are Common Causes of Distracted Driving?

Some common causes of distracted driving include:

  • Texting or talking on a phone
  • Using GPS or apps
  • Eating or drinking
  • Grooming or personal tasks
  • Adjusting music or entertainment systems
  • Conversations with passengers

Where Do Distracted Driving Accidents Usually Occur?

Distracted driving crashes are most common in busy intersections (like College Avenue and MLK Jr. Blvd. in Fayetteville), high-speed roadways (I-49 and U.S. 71), school zones and residential neighborhoods, and rural highways with long stretches of monotony. These accidents can involve many vehicles, including:

  • Rideshare accidents (Uber/Lyft drivers on apps)
  • Rollover accidents caused by distracted swerving
  • Collisions with uninsured or underinsured motorists
  • Multi-vehicle pileups

Liability and Damages in Distracted Driving Cases

Potentially responsible parties in a distracted driving accident may include the distracted driver, employers (if the driver was on the job), vehicle owners (if different from the driver), or third parties who encouraged unsafe behavior.

Once they can prove liability, victims may be entitled to damages for:

  • Medical expenses (past and future)
  • Lost income and diminished earning capacity
  • Pain and suffering
  • Emotional distress
  • Wrongful death damages for surviving family members
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Why Do I Need a Fayetteville Distracted Driving Lawyer?

Insurance companies often attempt to minimize payouts in distracted driving claims. An experienced distracted driving accident attorney in Fayetteville, AR, from our firm can investigate cellphone records, eyewitness accounts, and crash data to prove distraction. At McMath Woods, we know how to build strong cases that maximize compensation.

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Why Choose McMath Woods in Fayetteville?

Since 1953, McMath Woods has advocated for Arkansans injured in distracted driving accidents. Our attorneys bring extensive local knowledge and a proven history of success in personal injury cases, offering clients both guidance and determined advocacy. We understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll these accidents can take, and we fight to ensure our clients receive the attention and support they need.

As a leading Arkansas law firm, we prioritize personalized service for every client. Many cases are managed by multiple attorneys, allowing us to apply the full resources and expertise of our firm to each matter. By taking on a limited number of cases, we focus our energy and resources on protecting our clients and supporting their families throughout the legal process.

Reach out to McMath Woods today and let our team help you navigate the process and explore your options after a distracted driving accident.

Distacted Driving Accident FAQs

How long do you have to file a claim?

What type of fault system does Arkansas use?

What is the legal process like?

What are the attorney fees?

What steps should I take after a distracted driving accident?

How long do you have to file a claim?

In Arkansas, you generally have three years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit.

What type of fault system does Arkansas use?

Arkansas follows a modified comparative fault rule. You can recover damages if you are less than 50% at fault, but your percentage of fault will reduce your recovery.

What is the legal process like?

Your lawyer will investigate, file a claim, negotiate with insurers, and if necessary, proceed to litigation and trial. Many cases resolve in settlement, but we prepare every case as if it may go before a jury.

What are the attorney fees?

At McMath Woods, we work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay no upfront fees. We only collect if we secure compensation for you.

What steps should I take after a distracted driving accident?

  • Call 911 and report the accident.
  • Get medical treatment immediately.
  • Contact a Fayetteville distracted driving accident lawyer at our firm as soon as possible.

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