Winnebago County, IL Distracted Driving Attorneys

Despite Illinois laws and having knowledge of the dangers of distracted driving, there are still too many motorists who engage in dangerous behaviors while behind the wheel. While texting or cell phone use gets much of the media attention, there are many other activities that can cause a driver to be sidetracked. When a person’s attention is not focused on operating the vehicle, serious distracted driving accidents can occur. Injured victims may endure severe pain and suffering, and many other types of losses.

You do have rights if you are hurt due to someone else’s distracted driving, and our attorneys at the Law Office of Brassfield, Krueger & Ramlow, Ltd. are dedicated to fighting for them. We can help you recover the highest compensation available by law, whether in negotiations with the responsible motorist’s insurance company or in court. Our lawyers have been representing accident victims in Winnebago County and throughout Northern Illinois for decades, and we are here to serve your needs.

Distracted Driving Puts Everyone on the Road at Risk

Illinois law prohibits drivers from using an electronic communication device while driving, under statutory language that bars:

• Talking on a cell phone;
• Reviewing, responding to, or creating a text message;
• Surfing the internet via a hand-held wireless device;
• Capturing video or still images with a smartphone;
• Interacting on social media; and,
• All other means of utilizing an electronic device while behind the wheel of a vehicle.

Despite the law regarding use of an electronic device, many drivers still engage in illegal activities while driving, creating a heightened risk of injury-causing motor vehicle accidents. Plus, there are some forms of distracted driving that are not unlawful, but which are also negligent and likely to cause crashes, such as:

• Operating a GPS;
• Using a device that is integrated into the motor vehicle, such as a radio;
• Eating or drinking;
• Grooming;
• Engaging in conversation with passengers; and,
• Similar tasks sidetrack a driver’s attention from the primary task at hand.

Why Distracted Driving is so Dangerous

Distracted driving increases the likelihood of an accident because it interferes with safe operation of a vehicle in three distinct ways:

1. Visually, as a motorist’s eyes should be focused entirely on the road, the vehicle’s systems, and surrounding conditions;
2. Manually, because operators who are handling an item are taking their hands off the wheel or essential functions; and,
3. Mentally, where the driver is preoccupied about a subject or a conversation, and is not paying attention to operating the vehicle.

Consult with a Skilled Lawyer About Winnebago County Distracted Driving Accidents

Whether the conduct is illegal under Illinois or not, activities that amount to distracted driving are dangerous and threaten the safety of all motorists on the road. If you were injured in an accident caused by distracted driving, you may be able to recover compensation for your losses. An experienced attorney can help, so please contact Brassfield, Krueger & Ramlow, Ltd. to discuss your legal options. We can schedule a free consultation to review your case at our Winnebago County offices in Rockford, IL.