Every day, drivers in Newport face the consequences of distracted driving. A text message, a glance at a GPS, or a moment of inattention can turn a routine drive into a life-altering accident. If you or someone you care about was injured by a distracted driver, you may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Law Offices of Ronald J. Resmini handles distracted driving accident claims throughout Newport and is ready to advocate on your behalf. Contact us today for a free consultation with an experienced distracted driving accident lawyer.
Why Choose Law Offices of Ronald J. Resmini for Your Distracted Driving Accident Claim
When you’ve been injured in a distracted driving accident, it is important to work with a law firm that understands both the legal issues and the human impact of your case. Law Offices of Ronald J. Resmini has experience handling distracted driving claims in Newport. We understand how insurance companies evaluate claims, what evidence may help establish liability, and how to build cases that support a claim for compensation.
Our contingency fee basis means you pay nothing unless we recover money for you. Your initial consultation is completely free, with no obligation to hire us. We take the time to understand your accident, your injuries, and your goals so we can develop a strategy tailored to your situation. When you choose Law Offices of Ronald J. Resmini, you are choosing a firm focused on helping you move forward after an accident. Our trial attorneys have extensive experience with car accident claims.
What Counts as Distracted Driving in Newport
Distracted driving takes many forms, and understanding what qualifies as distraction is important for your case. The law recognizes three main categories of distracted driving behavior.
Visual Distractions
Visual distractions occur when a driver takes their eyes off the road. This includes texting, reading emails, checking social media, looking at a GPS device, adjusting the radio, or watching a video. Even a two-second glance away from the road at highway speeds means traveling more than half the length of a football field without looking. At 70 mph, that is approximately 200 feet. Visual distractions are particularly dangerous because they remove the driver’s attention from the road ahead.
Manual Distractions
Manual distractions happen when a driver takes their hands off the steering wheel. Texting is both a visual and manual distraction. Other examples include eating, drinking, smoking, grooming, reaching for items in the car, or adjusting controls. When a driver’s hands are not on the wheel, they may have less ability to react quickly to hazards.
Cognitive Distractions
Cognitive distractions occur when a driver’s mind is not focused on driving. This includes daydreaming, thinking about personal problems, having intense conversations, or being emotionally upset. A driver might be looking at the road and holding the wheel, but if their attention is elsewhere, their ability to respond to changing traffic conditions may be reduced.
How Distracted Driving Accidents Happen
Distracted driving is a significant cause of car accidents in Newport. The issue has grown as technology becomes more integrated into vehicles and daily life. Drivers who are distracted may have slower reaction times, reduced awareness of their surroundings, and impaired decision-making.
Common causes of distracted driving accidents include:
- Texting or using a cell phone
- GPS navigation and mapping apps
- Eating or drinking
- Adjusting vehicle controls
- Talking to passengers
- Grooming or personal care
- Daydreaming or fatigue
- Infotainment systems and touchscreens
When a distracted driver causes an accident, the results can be severe. Victims may suffer broken bones, traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, and internal injuries. Some accidents result in long-term disability or death. Insurance companies may attempt to minimize claims by suggesting the injured person was partially at fault or that injuries are less serious than reported. Law Offices of Ronald J. Resmini understands these tactics and works to address them using available evidence and supporting testimony.
Injuries and Damages You Can Recover
Distracted driving accidents frequently cause serious injuries because the driver may not brake or avoid the collision in time.
Common injuries from distracted driving accidents include:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
- Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
- Broken bones and fractures
- Internal organ damage
- Severe lacerations and burns
- Whiplash and neck injuries
- Back injuries and herniated discs
- Soft tissue injuries
- Permanent scarring and disfigurement
- Psychological trauma and PTSD
You may be able to recover compensation for both economic and non-economic damages. Economic damages can include medical expenses, surgical costs, rehabilitation, lost wages, lost earning capacity, and property damage. Non-economic damages may include pain and suffering, emotional distress, loss of enjoyment of life, and permanent disability. In fatal accident cases, surviving family members may pursue a wrongful death claim.
How We Prove Liability in Your Case
Proving that a driver was distracted requires gathering and analyzing evidence. Law Offices of Ronald J. Resmini works to identify relevant evidence and obtain supporting documentation. We may work with accident reconstruction professionals, medical providers, and investigators to build a case.
Evidence used to support distracted driving claims may include cell phone records showing usage at the time of the accident, police reports, photographs and video from the scene, witness statements, and professional analysis. We may also review vehicle data, traffic camera footage, and publicly available online activity where appropriate.
Insurance companies often have legal teams working to limit payouts. Law Offices of Ronald J. Resmini prepares each case with careful investigation and a legal strategy aimed at pursuing fair compensation. We may negotiate a settlement or take a case to trial when appropriate.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do immediately after a distracted driving accident?
First, prioritize your safety and the safety of others. Move to a safe location if possible, call 911 to report the accident, and request medical assistance if needed. Document the scene by taking photos of vehicle damage, road conditions, and the other driver’s vehicle. Get the other driver’s contact and insurance information, and collect witness details if available. Seek medical attention, even if you do not feel injured right away. Then contact Law Offices of Ronald J. Resmini to discuss your situation.
How long do I have to file a claim in Newport?
Rhode Island generally provides three years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. However, acting sooner can help preserve evidence and strengthen your claim. Contact us as soon as possible to discuss your options.
What if I was partially at fault for the accident?
Rhode Island follows a pure comparative negligence rule. You may still recover damages even if you were partially at fault, though your recovery may be reduced by your percentage of fault. Law Offices of Ronald J. Resmini can review the facts of your case and help assess liability.
How much does it cost to hire Law Offices of Ronald J. Resmini?
We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning we only get paid if compensation is recovered. There are no upfront costs or hourly fees. Your initial consultation is free.
How long does a distracted driving case typically take?
The timeline depends on factors such as case complexity and whether the matter settles or proceeds to trial. Some cases resolve in a few months, while others may take longer. Law Offices of Ronald J. Resmini works to move cases forward efficiently while allowing time for proper preparation.
Can I recover damages if the distracted driver was using a hands-free device?
Yes. Hands-free devices may reduce manual distraction but can still involve cognitive distraction. If a driver’s attention was impaired, they may still be held liable. Each case depends on its specific facts.
What if the at-fault driver doesn’t have insurance?
If the distracted driver is uninsured, you may still have options. Your uninsured motorist coverage may apply, and other insurance policies could be relevant depending on the circumstances. Law Offices of Ronald J. Resmini reviews potential sources of recovery based on the details of your case.
Contact Law Offices of Ronald J. Resmini for Your Free Consultation
You do not have to handle the aftermath of a distracted driving accident alone. Law Offices of Ronald J. Resmini can help you understand your rights, evaluate your claim, and pursue compensation. Call 401.751.8855 or visit our contact page to schedule your free consultation. We are ready to assist you.