Although texting and using electronic devices pose serious risks to everyone on the road, many drivers simply do not resist the temptation to engage in this distracting activity. You may have suffered extensive losses when you are involved in a crash caused by a driver using their phone while behind the wheel. While nothing can turn back the clock and undo the hurt you have experienced, filing a lawsuit can give you a chance to advocate for your interests.
Shook & Stone has helped many victims of texting while driving car accidents in Reno recover the financial support they deserve after the trauma of a crash. Because our seasoned Reno car accident lawyers understand that money can be tight after a wreck disrupts your life, they provide free initial consultations. Our firm is well positioned to handle the multiple impacts of motor vehicle accidents, including personal injury, Social Security Disability Insurance, and—when applicable—workers’ compensation claims.
State Rules About Using Electronics While Driving
Drivers who use their cell phones or other devices while operating a vehicle pose an extraordinary hazard to those around them. In the hopes of combatting this, Nevada Revised Statutes § 484B.165 makes it illegal for most drivers to use their phones while behind the wheel. Recognizing the multiple ways people engage with technology, the law goes further and prohibits a wide range of activities.
For example, drivers cannot read, send, or write messages or posts on their phones, whether they intend to text or email someone or post material on their social media accounts. Likewise, it is illegal for those operating vehicles to search for content on their phones, such as Googling information. Further, drivers are prohibited from making or answering phone calls unless using hands-free methods, such as a native Bluetooth feature in their car.
Limited exceptions apply to the above laws, including if the driver is a first responder or police officer or is attempting to contact emergency services. Nonetheless, texting while driving is a dangerous activity that can—and frequently does—cause devastating injuries to hundreds of innocent people each year. At Shook & Stone, our Reno personal injury lawyers take texting and driving collision cases in Reno very seriously and provide compassionate advocacy to injured parties.
Proving Fault in a Collision Caused by Texting and Driving
Injured individuals can hold the at-fault driver accountable in court if they present a successful argument for why the other driver is responsible for what happened. While situations vary, in most cases, the injured person must prove the at-fault driver was responsible for driving safely and failed to do so, leading to the crash that caused their injury. In the context of texting-related wrecks, the injured party may need to show the driver was using their phone illegally, which is what led to the crash.
As injured individuals prepare their cases, they should be aware of Nevada’s comparative negligence law. This law, found at Nev. Rev. Stat. § 41.141, is a defense that the at-fault driver can raise, which shifts the blame to the injured party and attempts to reduce their recovery. If successful, the negligent driver may persuade the court to dismiss the injured person’s claims or decrease the compensation they can receive for their injuries.
Shook & Stone has experience navigating the complex and nuanced Nevada traffic and personal injury laws. Instead of providing clients with cookie-cutter solutions to their legal problems, we approach each case with fresh eyes. By working with our skilled lawyers in Reno, you get a team prepared to forge a partnership with you to maximize your chance of success in your texting while driving accident claim.
Call Our Attorneys After a Texting-Related Car Crash in Reno
Being in a motor accident can cause irreparable damage to your physical, emotional, and, sometimes, financial well-being. When a negligent driver harms you and your vehicle, you can take legal action to hold them accountable for selfishly choosing to use their phones instead of being careful. Instead of taking on this task by yourself—which could jeopardize your healing process—consider partnering with a capable auto collision attorney.
Shook & Stone understands the cascading impacts of texting while driving car accidents in Reno. We can investigate your claim and advise you on the most effective strategy to seek compensation through a negotiated settlement or lawsuit. Contact our committed lawyers today to schedule a free consultation.
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