Have you or a loved one been injured in a car crash caused by a driver who was too busy texting to notice what was happening on the road? If so, you’re probably in pain and watching the medical bills pile up. You may even be out of work, adding extra stress to an already challenging time.
Please know that you do not have to face these challenges alone. At Morris, King & Hodge, P.C., we understand what you are going through and are here to help. Our experienced Huntsville texting and driving accident attorneys are ready to fight for your rights and the compensation you deserve.
Do not let someone else’s careless decision to text and drive derail your life. Contact us today for a free consultation with a texting and driving accident attorney in Huntsville, and let us put our knowledge and experience to work for you.
Why You Need Our Firm After a Texting-Related Car Crash
You deserve compensation and justice for what happened to you, and you shouldn’t have to cut through a lot of red tape to get it. Instead, you can turn to the texting and driving accident lawyers at Morris, King & Hodge, P.C. Here’s what we offer:
- Experience handling distracted driving cases – We have a deep understanding of Alabama’s texting and driving laws and how to use them to your advantage.
- A proven track record of success – We’ve been representing injured victims in North Alabama since 1966 and have recovered tens of millions of dollars on their behalf.
- The resources to build a strong case – We have access to highly skilled accident reconstruction experts, medical specialists, and investigators who can help us bolster your claim.
- Personalized attention – We treat every client with the dignity and respect they deserve.
- No upfront costs – We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay only if we win your case.
The Dangers of Texting Behind the Wheel
Texting while driving is a serious threat to road safety. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), when a driver reads or sends a text, they:
- Take their eyes off the road for an average of 5 seconds, enough to travel the length of a football field when driving at 55 mph
- Are 23 times more likely to crash than non-distracted drivers
- Have slower reaction times than drunk driver
These startling statistics highlight why texting behind the wheel is so dangerous. It combines all three types of distraction:
- Visual – Taking one’s eyes off the road
- Manual – Taking one’s hands off the wheel
- Cognitive – Taking one’s mind off driving
Operating a motor vehicle requires an individual’s full attention. Those who do not take this responsibility seriously can endanger the lives of other road users.
Texting While Driving Laws in Huntsville
Alabama has taken significant steps to combat the dangers of texting while driving. As of June 15, 2023, a new Hands-Free Law went into effect in the state, including Huntsville. This law:
- Makes it illegal to use a cell phone or other electronic devices while driving
- Prohibits any action beyond a single touch or swipe on an electronic device
- Allows use of speakerphones, earpieces, wireless headsets, and Bluetooth for phone calls
The penalties for violations include the following:
- First offense – $50 fine and one point on driver’s license
- Second offense – $100 fine and two points
- Third offense – $150 fine and three points
This law aims to reduce distracted driving accidents, which have seen a 67.5 percent increase in fatalities over the past five years in Alabama.
Proving Liability in a Huntsville Texting While Driving Accident
Establishing liability in a texting while driving accident can be challenging, but our experienced attorneys know how to build a strong case. We can:
- Analyze police reports and any citations issued at the scene
- Obtain cell phone records to show the driver was texting at the time of the crash
- Gather eyewitness testimony from people who saw the driver texting
- Review surveillance or traffic camera footage if available
- Work with accident reconstruction experts to demonstrate how the crash occurred
By thoroughly investigating the accident and collecting evidence, we can seek to prove the other driver’s negligence and liability for your injuries.
Compensation for Victims of Texting While Driving Accidents in Huntsville
If you were hurt in a texting and driving accident, you may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical expenses, including those for past, present, and future treatments and rehabilitation
- Lost income if your accident-related injuries have caused you to miss time at work
- Pain and suffering for the physical and emotional distress the accident has caused you
- Property damage, or the repair or replacement of your vehicle and other items that were damaged in the crash
- Loss of enjoyment of life, if you have been unable to take part in activities or hobbies you used to love
The amount of compensation will depend on the specific circumstances of your case. Our texting and driving accident lawyers will work diligently to account for all your losses and maximize your potential recovery.
How Our Texting and Driving Accident Lawyers Can Help
The seasoned legal team at Morris, King & Hodge, P.C., is passionate about helping victims of texting and driving accidents in Huntsville. Our experienced attorneys will:
- Conduct a thorough investigation of your accident
- Gather and preserve crucial evidence
- Handle all communication with insurance companies
- Negotiate for a fair settlement on your behalf
- Take your case to trial if necessary
We understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll a texting and driving car accident can take on you and your family. Let us shoulder the legal burden so you can focus on your recovery.
Time is limited to file a case, as you must file any lawsuit against the at-fault party within two years of the accident date. Don’t wait to get the legal help you need. Contact Morris, King & Hodge, P.C. today for a free consultation.
