I was in an accident and hit by a distracted driver: 5 things to get before you leave the scene.

According to the CDC (https://www.cdc.gov/), each day in the US, there are 9 fatalities and 1,161 injuries caused by distracted driving.

Distracted driving is a serious problem on the road and is not just texting or cell phone use.

The three main types of distraction are anything that takes hands from the wheel, eyes off the road or attention off of driving.

Drivers under the age of 20 have the greatest proportion of distraction related fatal accidents.

But, teenagers aren’t the only drivers texting. In a study done by AT&T, a surprising 49% of American adult drivers admitted to texting while driving.

In a study done by Virginia Tech Transportation Institute, texting while driving increases the probability of a crash by 23 times.

Distracted driving poses a very real threat.

If you have been in an accident likely caused by a distracted driver, the following are

5 things you need to get before leaving the scene of the accident

1.Call the police.

In your statement to them about the accident, indicate that you suspect the other driver was texting or distracted in some way leading up to the accident. Offer them reasons for why you believe this was the case. Your concerns will become part of the permanent official record of the incident.

2.Driver information.

Be cordial and polite, but be sure to obtain the driver’s name, license number, insurance information and contact information. Especially important is the cell phone number which may later be used to obtain phone records that can help prove phone activity at the time of the accident.

3.Witnesses.

Get the names and contact info of any witnesses who may have noticed the other driver was distracted.

4.Surveillance cameras.

Look around at the scene of the car accident to see if any surveillance cameras may have caught the incident on camera.

5.Document.

Take pictures of all vehicles from different angles and of any brake marks. Also, photograph the direction the drivers were traveling and any other pictures that may indicate liability in the case.

Distracted driving is nothing to take lightly.

If you have been in an auto accident where you believe the other driver was distracted, it’s in your best interest to seek the trusted counsel of a legal professional who can help you secure your rights.

Hinman Law Group is experienced in dealing with car wrecks involving distracted drivers. Call (877) 462-9732 for a FREE consultation with our attorneys.