Distracted driving is a dangerous epidemic plaguing South Carolina’s roadways. From minor fender-benders to fatal accidents, the consequences of this reckless behavior can be devastating.

What is Distracted Driving?

Distracted driving refers to any activity that diverts attention from driving, including:

• Cell phone use
• Talking to passengers
• Eating and drinking
• Adjusting radio, media, or other controls
• Navigation systems
• Grooming or applying makeup
• Reading/writing
• Daydreaming
• Rubbernecking
• Impaired driving
• Fatigue
• Road rage

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that distraction-related accidents are responsible for thousands of fatalities and injuries every year. In fact, 9% of all fatal crashes in the U.S. in 2022 involved distracted driving, according to the NHTSA.

In South Carolina alone, distracted driving continues to be a leading cause of traffic accidents. The state saw 11,000 distracted driving-related crashes in 2021, resulting in 62 fatalities and thousands of injuries.

These accidents affect all types of vehicles, from cars and trucks to motorcycles and even boats, and the consequences are often severe for all parties involved.

Common Accidents Caused by Distracted Driving

Car Accidents

Car accidents are the most common type of distracted driving accident, and they are often caused by drivers texting, making phone calls, or checking social media while behind the wheel.

With the rise of smartphones, drivers are increasingly prone to becoming distracted by notifications, conversations, and multimedia. This can lead to rear-end collisions, lane departures, and accidents at intersections, among other types of crashes.

In Columbia, SC, where traffic congestion is common, the risk of a distracted driving crash increases, especially during rush hours or on busy roads like I-26 and I-77. If you’ve been in a car accident due to another driver’s negligence, it’s essential to consult with a Columbia SC auto accident lawyer to assess your case and ensure that your legal rights are upheld.

Truck Accidents

Due to their size and weight, trucks are particularly dangerous when involved in accidents. Distracted driving by truck drivers can lead to catastrophic crashes, especially on highways like I-20 and I-95, frequently traveled by commercial vehicles. Truck drivers may be distracted by electronic logging devices (ELDs), dispatch notifications, or even adjusting the radio or eating while driving.

According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), distracted driving is a leading cause of truck accidents in the U.S. In fact, the National Safety Council reports that 71% of truck accidents involve driver distractions.

If a truck driver causes an accident due to distractions, the trucking company may also be held liable, making it crucial to involve a lawyer experienced in handling truck accident cases.

Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcycle riders are particularly vulnerable on the roads due to their smaller size and lack of protective barriers. The results can be fatal when drivers fail to notice motorcycles or become distracted and drift into motorcycle lanes.

In South Carolina, motorcycle crashes are a serious concern, with over 3,000 accidents and 150 fatalities reported in 2021. Distracted driving, such as texting or using a mobile phone while driving, often leads to these tragic events.

Motorcyclists involved in accidents caused by distracted drivers need to act quickly to gather evidence, seek medical attention, and contact a Columbia SC auto accident lawyer to ensure they receive proper compensation for their injuries.

Boating Accidents

While distracted driving is commonly associated with cars and trucks, it’s also a significant concern on the water. Distracted boaters may engage in activities such as texting, using GPS devices, or even conversing with passengers, taking their focus away from the water.

Boating accidents in South Carolina are on the rise, particularly in areas like Lake Murray. According to the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources, human error—often caused by distractions—is responsible for a large portion of boating accidents in the state.

Boating accidents caused by distracted drivers can result in serious injuries or fatalities. If you’re involved in a boating accident due to another person’s negligence, an experienced lawyer can help you navigate the complex waters of maritime law to secure compensation for your injuries.

A Few Minutes of Distraction Can Mean Big Consequences

The consequences of distracted driving accidents can be severe. Victims may face long-term medical expenses, lost wages, emotional trauma, and physical disabilities. In some cases, families lose loved ones due to preventable accidents caused by distracted drivers.

South Carolina law allows victims of distracted driving accidents to pursue compensation for medical bills, pain and suffering, property damage, and lost income through a personal injury lawsuit.

Distracted Driving Laws in South Carolina

South Carolina has strict laws regarding distracted driving. As of 2014, texting while driving is prohibited for all drivers in the state. Violators face fines and potential penalties.

However, the law does not ban the use of handheld devices for phone calls or other activities, though it is strongly discouraged. This highlights the state’s awareness of the dangers of distracted driving and the importance of keeping drivers focused on the road.

What to Do After a Distracted Driving Accident

1. Seek medical attention immediately, even if you don’t feel injured. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent.
2. Call the police and report the accident. A police report can be crucial in proving fault.
3. Gather evidence, including photos of the scene, contact information of witnesses, and any documentation of the accident.
4. Contact a Columbia SC auto accident lawyer to discuss your case and understand your legal options.

How a Columbia SC Auto Accident Lawyer Can Help

If you or a loved one has been involved in an accident caused by distracted driving, it’s critical to consult with a Columbia SC auto accident lawyer. An experienced lawyer will help you navigate the legal process, gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and, if necessary, represent you in court.

They will also help identify the parties responsible, whether the driver, the employer (in the case of truck accidents), or the manufacturer of faulty vehicle equipment.

Call Goodwyn Law Firm Today

Contact Goodwyn Law Firm today if you’ve been injured in an auto, truck, motorcycle, or boating accident caused by distracted driving in Columbia, SC, or surrounding.

Our team of experienced Columbia, SC, auto accident lawyers is dedicated to helping you recover the compensation you deserve.

Call us at 803-251-4517 for a free initial consultation, and let us guide you through the legal process.