Moments of inattention while driving, such as texting, eating, or multitasking, put all Minnetonka residents at risk for an accident. Injuries sustained leave pedestrians, bicyclists, and other motorists burdened by financial, physical, and emotional damages.
If you or a loved one was injured due to someone not paying attention to the road, contact a Minnetonka distracted driving attorney today.
At Fields Injury Law, we recognize the profound impact of these incidents. Distracted driving isn't just about broken vehicles; it's about broken lives, disrupted dreams, and the long journey to recovery.
As champions for those affected, we stand beside you, ensuring justice is delivered through fair compensation for damages. Trust our Minnesota personal injury lawyers to advocate on your behalf with comprehensive and compassionate legal support.
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Why Choose Fields Injury Law as Your Distracted Driving Lawyers in Minnetonka, Minnesota
![Minnetonka Distracted Driving Attorneys](https://fieldslawfirm1.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Minnetonka-Distracted-Driving-Attorneys.jpg)
Understanding your journey is at the heart of our representation. No distracted driving case we take is just a file or a number; it's a life, a story. And every story deserves compassionate, comprehensive legal support.
Over the years, we've refined our services through an approach tailor-made for the complexities of distracted driving accidents. We don't just handle one aspect of your case; we manage every dimension, from gathering essential evidence and expert testimonies to ensuring all avenues of compensation are explored.
A singular purpose drives the evolution of our method: to ensure victims of distracted driving have an unyielding car accident lawyer for their Minnetonka personal injury claim. This comprehensive perspective means that we account for every potential consequence of your auto accident.
The Fields approach is more than just legal representation; it's a commitment to helping distracted driving victims reclaim their lives after serious injury. Whether it's through pursuing financial compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, or emotional damages, we are here to support you every step of the way.
What is Considered Distracted Driving?
Any action that hinders safe driving, even if not specified in the law, can constitute negligence in a traffic accident. It's not just about texting or making calls; it's any action that diverts attention from driving, including but not limited to:
- Visual distractions: Taking eyes off the road. Examples include reading a text, looking at a GPS, or watching a video.
- Manual distractions: Taking hands off the wheel. Examples include eating, adjusting controls, or searching for items in the car.
- Cognitive distractions: Taking your mind off the driving task. Examples include daydreaming, being engrossed in a conversation, or thinking about personal issues.
Minnesota has strict laws against texting and driving. Unfortunately, these measures have not helped prevent the 50,000+ car accidents in its cities over the past decade.
Who Is At Risk of Distracted Driving Accidents in Minnetonka
Older and Younger Drivers
Demographically, younger, newly licensed, and senior drivers are most at risk of being involved in distracted driving accidents. New drivers lack the experience and confidence to resist common distractions like phone calls or texts, whereas seniors may struggle with physical and cognitive impairments that make it challenging to multitask while driving.
Unlicensed Drivers.
Drivers who are unlicensed or have a suspended/revoked license may also be at a higher risk of distracted driving accidents. Without proper training, knowledge, or respect for traffic laws, a driver may be more likely to engage in risky behaviors while behind the wheel.
Frequent Commuters
Drivers who regularly make long commutes or spend significant time on the road risk becoming complacent and distracted. Over time, a driver can become overly confident and engage in distracting activities without considering the consequences.
Working Professionals
Delivery and rideshare drivers are also at a higher risk of distracted driving accidents. The demands of their job may require them to use their phones or engage in other activities while behind the wheel, putting themselves and others at risk.
Commercial vehicle operators
Long-haul truckers are under immense pressure to deliver goods on time, which often leads to distracted and aggressive driving. This puts the driver and other motorists sharing the road at risk.
Where Do Distracted Driving Car Accidents Occur in Minnetonka?
![Where Do Distracted Driving Car Accidents Occur in Minnetonka?](https://fieldsinjurylaw.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Distracted-Driving-1.jpg)
The most dangerous intersections in Minnetonka for traffic accidents are along Highway 7. Both County Road 101 and Williston Road have been the site of multiple collisions, some resulting in fatalities.
Other high-risk areas for distracted driving auto accidents include:
- Intersections with heavy traffic, particularly during rush hour.
- School zones and areas near schools where there may be a higher concentration of young drivers.
- Construction zones, where lane closures, detours, and other road changes can increase driving distractions.
- Parking lots and garages are places where people are more likely to engage in manual distractions, such as adjusting their GPS or searching for a parking spot.
It doesn't matter if you are in a motor vehicle, walking down the street, or biking Minnetonka Blvd; distracted driving accidents can happen anywhere and at any time. Make sure you've got an experienced personal injury attorney protecting your right to maximum compensation when they do.
Distracted Driving Accident Injuries
The immediate and perhaps most evident consequence of a motor vehicle accident is physical injuries, including but not limited to:
- Scratches and bruises
- Broken bones
- Soft tissue damage
- Spinal cord injuries
- Traumatic Brain Injuries
- Organ damage
- Lost limbs
- Whiplash
Recovery might mean days, weeks, or even a lifetime of medical intervention, therapy, and rehabilitation for accident victims.
Beyond physical injuries, an accident victim may suffer from extreme emotional and psychological distress that affects their daily lives, including:
- Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Fear of driving or being in a vehicle
- Panic Attacks
- Recurring nightmares
- Difficulty concentrating or sleeping
- Flashbacks to the accident
These physical and emotional injuries can take a significant toll on an individual's quality of life and may require ongoing medical treatment. In severe cases, accident victims may be unable to return to work or participate in activities they once enjoyed.
How Much Is My Distracted Driving Case Worth?
No amount can compensate distracted driver victims for the incredible physical, emotional, and financial toll of car accidents. However, seeking compensation with the help of experienced lawyers can alleviate some of the financial burdens caused by these accidents.
Minnesota has a six-year statute of limitations allowing plaintiffs to recover damages. The potential amount of a car accident claim is based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to:
- The severity of injuries sustained
- Medical expenses, both current and future
- Lost wages and earning potential
- Property damage
- Emotional distress
- Pain and suffering
For a better understanding of what these factors entail, consider potential medical costs for treating car accident injuries:
- Paramedic/Ambulance Care: $1,000 to $5,000+
- Emergency room visit: $1,462 to 3,500+ per visit
- Overnight hospital stay: $2,561 to $8,000+
- Broken bone treatment: $2,500 to $25,000+
- Spinal cord injury treatment: $300,000+ in the first year
- Traumatic brain injury treatment: can exceed 2 million over a lifetime
- Amputation surgery :$100,000+ per limb
- Whiplash treatment: $2,500 to $10,000+
- Soft tissue injury treatment: $2,500 to $10,000+
Initial and ongoing medical bills alone could make your case worth hundreds of thousands or even millions of dollars. Factor in specialist care, rehabilitation, medical devices, medication, and physiological therapy, and your case could be worth much more than the insurance company is offering.
Find out how much your car accident case is worth during a free consultation with an experienced car accident lawyer in Minnetonka.
Our Practice Areas
Fields Injury Law provides compassionate, comprehensive legal support to English and Spanish speakers in the following practice areas:
- Personal Injury
- Workers' Comp
- Car Accidents
- Truck Accidents
- Disability Claims
- Wrongful Death
- Brain Injury/TBI
- Construction Accidents
- Dog Bite Injuries
- Drunk Driving Accidents
- Motorcycle Accidents
- Product Liability
Trusted by thousands of clients across all 50 states, Fields Injury Law accident attorneys are here to help accident victims navigate the complexities of Minnesota injury law.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I take the initial offer from an insurance company for my car accident case?
Insurance companies are notorious for offering low initial settlements to personal injury victims. It's always best to consult with an experienced personal injury lawyer before accepting any offers or signing any documents. An auto accident lawyer from Fields Injury Law can help you evaluate your case and determine a fair settlement amount.
Is a negligent driver the same as a distracted one?
Negligent drivers may exhibit various behaviors, such as speeding, running red lights or stop signs, and driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol. While distracted driving is a form of negligence, this specifically refers to activities that take a driver's attention away from the road. Our drunk driving attorneys can help you hold negligent drivers accountable for their actions.
Why do I need a distracted driving accident lawyer?
With insurance companies trying to protect their profits, complex legal processes, and severe medical issues, navigating a car accident claim alone is incredibly challenging. A distracted driving accident lawyer from Fields Injury Law can help you gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and fight for the compensation you deserve.
How long does it take to settle car accident cases?
The timeline for settling a car accident case varies depending on the severity of injuries sustained and the cooperation of involved parties. Typically, reaching a fair settlement can take anywhere from a few months to a year or more. A personal injury accident lawyer from Fields Injury Law will work diligently to expedite the process while ensuring you receive maximum compensation for medical bills, pain, and suffering.
How much does hiring a distracted driving accident lawyer in Minnetonka cost?
At Fields Injury Law, we operate on a contingency fee basis. This means that you will not pay any upfront legal fees. Instead, our compensation comes as a percentage of your settlement or court verdict. If we cannot successfully resolve your auto accident or claim, you'll only be responsible for court fees or costs associated with filing your claim.
How does Minnesota's "no-fault" insurance affect my distracted driving case?
Minnesota is a "no-fault" insurance state, meaning that each driver's insurance company covers their injuries and damages regardless of who caused the accident. However, in cases where the at-fault driver engaged in negligent or reckless behavior, such as distracted driving, you may be able to pursue additional compensation beyond what your insurance covers. Speak to our personal injury accident lawyers to learn more about your legal options.
Will I have to testify in court for my distracted driving case?
Most personal injury cases, including those involving distracted driving, are settled outside of court. Our team at Fields Injury Law will work hard to negotiate a fair settlement for your case. However, if the insurance company refuses to offer a fair amount or disputes liability, we are not afraid to take your case to trial and fight for fair compensation.
How do I file a claim for my distracted driving accident?
After seeking medical attention and contacting the police, your next step should be to contact an experienced car accident lawyer from Fields Injury Law. We will guide you through filing a claim, gathering evidence, and negotiating with insurance companies. Our goal is to handle all legal aspects of your case so that you can focus on your physical and emotional recovery.
Choose Fields Injury Law Distracted Driving Attorneys in Minnetonka
When a distracted driver accident leaves you or a loved one with injuries, you don't have to go through the legal process alone. At Fields Injury Law, we provide compassionate and effective representation that helps you recover physically, emotionally, and financially. Trust Fields Injury Law to champion your rights and secure the compensation you deserve after a distracted driver accident in Minnetonka. Contact our personal injury lawyers online or at (612) 206-3495 for a free consultation in English or Spanish.