Jackson Distracted Driving Lawyer

Jackson Distracted Driving Attorney

Around Jackson, Michigan, distracted drivers cause collisions that leave victims with catastrophic injuries and significant property damage. If you were hurt in a recent accident caused by someone else who lacked focus, contact a trusted Jackson distracted driving lawyer. The experienced team at Wigod & Falzon can discuss pursuing financial damages as a victim of a local distracted driver.

Important Distracted Driving Laws in Michigan

In 2023, Michigan law made it illegal to operate a vehicle and use a cell phone. Governor Gretchen Whitmer decided you cannot:

• Begin or answer a telephone or video call
• Send or read emails or text messages
• Watch, send, or record videos while driving
• Use the Internet
• Access, read, or otherwise use social media while operating a vehicle
• Enter information into a GPS or vehicle navigation system while driving (you must enter this information before starting a drive)

If you are driving while distracted, you may face penalties. If you’ve been injured, a skilled Jackson personal injury lawyer can help you seek compensation.

Distracted Driving in Michigan

Distracted driving remains a problem in Michigan and throughout the country. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration noted that in 2021, there were 3,522 fatalities in the United States due to distracted driving. Local Jackson car accident statistics highlight the risks in our area.

In Michigan, the Michigan State Police reported 287,953 total accidents in 2023, of which 15,136 involved distracted drivers. These accidents resulted in 5,889 injuries and 59 fatalities. If a loved one was killed, an experienced Jackson wrongful death lawyer can help you seek justice.

While the 2023 law is helping to correct the majority of distracted drivers, there are still drivers who cause accidents because they lack focus while driving. If you need help after a distracted driver hits you, contact Wigod & Falzon.

Helpful Tips to Avoid Distracted Driving

Here are some ways to avoid distracted driving:

• Set your phone to Do Not Disturb or use an app to silence your texts and calls
• Put your phone in your trunk, center console, or glove box to limit your urge to use it
• Don’t smoke, eat, or drink while operating your vehicle
• Don’t read anything while driving, including reading a map
• Don’t change your clothing while driving or use makeup
• Avoid using earbuds or headphones and keep music to a minimum noise level
• If you need to take a phone call or make a call, pull your car to a safe location to park
• Avoid driving with your pet,
• If possible, have your passenger change music, monitor your emails and texts, and help navigate
• Try to stay focused

These steps should help you avoid becoming distracted while driving. If you are hit by a distracted driver, contact a Jackson attorney for assistance. Understanding Michigan’s no-fault law can help you navigate your benefits.

Consult a Lawyer

Contact an experienced Jackson attorney after an accident. They can:

• Explore your legal options for recovery from the at-fault driver
• Investigate your accident
• Prove that the other driver’s distracted driving caused your accident
• Represent your interests in court, if necessary
• Provide legal support and protect your rights

With an attorney, you significantly improve your odds for maximum financial recovery and can learn process to file a personal injury claim in Jackson to seek compensation. Contact Wigod & Falzon to schedule a no-cost case review.

FAQs

Is More Information Available Online About Distracted Driving in Jackson, Michigan?

Yes, the State of Michigan maintains a website full of reliable information about distracted driving laws and about distracted driving in general. It specifies what is allowed and prohibited in Michigan while driving. It also outlines the potential penalties if drivers are caught by law enforcement using certain devices while operating vehicles.

Distracted driving remains a statewide concern, and in 2023 alone, 2,405 crashes and 11 fatalities involved the use of cell phones.

Is It Illegal to Use My Car’s Built-In Bluetooth System?

In Michigan, you can use your hands-free technology like an integrated Bluetooth system as long as you don’t do anything more than a single touch. If you do anything more than a one-touch operation to operate your vehicle’s integrated system, it’s against Michigan law.

You may not operate any technology within your car beyond just a single touch, even if your phone is mounted. You should try to set up voice-activated phone commands instead.

Can I Use My Cell Phone If I Have an Emergency or See a Collision?

Yes, you can use your cell phone if you see a collision, are involved in a crash, or have an emergency. You can use your phone under Michigan law to text or call 911 in these situations.

If you were involved in a collision with a distracted driver, seek medical attention and document the scene using your cell phone to take photos and videos. Then, consider contacting an attorney to help with your injury and property damage claim.

How Does My Attorney Prove Distracted Driving in Michigan?

To prove a Michigan driver was distracted, your attorney usually gathers evidence to support your distracted driving claim. They can prove there was a distraction and that the driver’s lack of focus caused your accident. To prove fault, an attorney can gather vehicle videos, police reports, cell phone records, and eyewitness statements to build a compelling claim on your behalf.

Request a Free Consultation — Contact Wigod & Falzon

Many people are surprised to hear the value of their claim once they speak with an attorney. We can help explore the value of your case and help maximize your recovery. Let us help you move forward after a vehicle collision that wasn’t your fault. We can evaluate your accidents and discuss our potential strategy for resolving your claim. If you were involved in a recent accident, you might be entitled to financial recovery under Michigan’s distracted driving law.

With two office locations in Southfield and Jackson, we welcome the chance to talk about your case and how we can help. Right near the I-94 freeway, our Jackson office is located in The Blake Building, a historic office tower in the heart of downtown Jackson with plenty of on-site parking. We’re conveniently located near Grand River Brewery and the Michigan Theatre of Jackson, and City Hall is steps away.

Contact Wigod & Falzon to set up an initial no-cost consultation with our distracted driving attorneys. We can help you get what you need to move forward. Contact us to schedule a free consultation with a leading Jackson law firm.