At The Johnson Injury Law Firm, we understand the devastating impact that texting and driving accidents can have on victims and their families. Every year, distracted drivers cause countless injuries and fatalities, leaving lives shattered and communities grieving.

These accidents are entirely preventable, yet the rise in smartphone use has made distracted driving one of the leading causes of car accidents in Richmond and across Virginia. If you’ve been injured in a texting and driving accident, we are here to fight for your rights and secure the compensation you deserve.

As Richmond texting and driving accident lawyers, we have helped countless individuals recover after being harmed by negligent drivers. Our team is familiar with Virginia’s laws and has the experience and resources to handle even the most challenging cases.

You can count on compassionate guidance and aggressive advocacy when you work with us.

The Dangers of Texting and Driving

Texting and driving is one of the most dangerous forms of distracted driving. It involves all three types of distraction—manual, visual, and cognitive—which means the driver’s hands, eyes, and mind are all diverted from driving. According to the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), distracted driving contributed to nearly 20% of all crashes in the state in 2022, with over 26,000 crashes involving distracted drivers.

Sending or reading a text message takes an average of five seconds. At highway speeds, this is equivalent to driving the length of a football field blindfolded. This dangerous behavior puts everyone on the road at risk, including other drivers, passengers, pedestrians, and cyclists.

Virginia Laws on Texting and Driving

Virginia takes distracted driving seriously, and texting while driving is prohibited under Virginia Code § 46.2-818.2. This law bans all drivers from using a handheld device to:

• Send or read text messages or emails
• Access social media
• Browse the internet
• Dial phone numbers manually (with limited exceptions)

The penalties for violating this law include a $125 fine for the first offense and a $250 fine for subsequent offenses. In some cases, drivers who cause accidents due to texting and driving may also face reckless driving charges or other legal consequences.

However, despite these laws, many drivers continue to use their phones behind the wheel, endangering everyone around them. Our Richmond distracted driving accident lawyers are dedicated to holding these negligent drivers accountable for their actions.

Proving Liability in a Texting and Driving Accident

Proving that a driver was texting during an accident can be challenging, but our attorneys have the experience and tools to uncover the truth. We work tirelessly to gather evidence, which may include:

• Cell phone records to show usage at the time of the crash
• Eyewitness testimony from others who saw the driver using their phone
• Surveillance or traffic camera footage capturing the accident
• Police report noting distracted driving as a contributing factor
• Accident reconstruction to analyze the moments leading up to the collision

By building a strong case, we aim to demonstrate that the at-fault driver’s negligence caused the accident and your injuries. We aim to secure maximum compensation for you, covering medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.

Common Injuries in Texting and Driving Accidents

Texting and driving accidents can result in catastrophic injuries, particularly when they occur at high speeds. Some of the most common injuries we see in these cases include:

• Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
• Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
• Broken bones and fractures
• Internal organ damage
• Whiplash and other soft tissue injuries
• Cuts, bruises, and lacerations

If you’ve suffered any of these injuries, seeking immediate medical attention and following your doctor’s treatment plan is crucial. Your health and recovery are our top priorities, and we will work diligently to ensure you receive the care and support you need.

Why Choose Us as Your Texting and Driving Accident Attorney in Richmond?

At The Johnson Injury Law Firm, we are passionate about helping accident victims rebuild their lives. As a trusted Richmond texting and driving accident lawyer, we offer the following:

• Personalized attention: We understand that every case is unique, and we take the time to listen to your story and understand your specific needs.
• Proven results: Our attorneys have a track record of securing significant settlements and verdicts for our clients, even in complex cases.
• Compassionate advocacy: We know how stressful and overwhelming the aftermath of an accident can be, and we are here to guide you through the process with care and understanding.
• Aggressive representation: We don’t back down when dealing with insurance companies. We fight tirelessly to protect your rights and maximize your compensation.

Understanding Your Legal Options

If you’ve been injured in a texting and driving accident, you may be entitled to compensation for your damages. This can include:

• Medical expenses: From emergency care to ongoing treatment, we ensure all your medical costs are covered.
• Lost wages: If your injuries prevent you from working, we will seek compensation for your lost income and diminished earning capacity.
• Pain and suffering: The physical pain and emotional distress caused by an accident are real and deserve recognition.
• Property damage: If your vehicle or other personal property was damaged in the crash, we will pursue reimbursement for repair or replacement costs.

As experienced car accident attorneys near you, we are here to explain your rights and legal options in plain language. Our team will handle every aspect of your case, allowing you to focus on your recovery.

How to Protect Yourself from Distracted Drivers

While we can’t control the behavior of others, there are steps you can take to protect yourself from distracted drivers:

• Stay alert: Watch for erratic or distracted driving behaviors, such as swerving or inconsistent speeds.
• Maintain a safe distance: Avoid following too closely behind other vehicles, especially if you suspect the driver may be distracted.
• Use defensive driving techniques: Be prepared to react quickly to sudden changes in traffic patterns or unexpected hazards.
• Limit your distractions: Set an example by putting your phone away while driving and encouraging others to do the same.

Despite your best efforts, accidents can still happen. If a distracted driver has injured you, our Richmond distracted driving accident lawyers are here to help.

Contact Us Today for a Free Consultation

If you or a loved one has been hurt in a texting and driving accident, don’t wait to seek legal help. At The Johnson Injury Law Firm, we stand up for victims and hold negligent drivers accountable. As a top-rated auto accident lawyer in Richmond, we have the skills, experience, and dedication to secure the justice and compensation you deserve.

Contact us today to schedule a free consultation with our team. Let us review your case, answer your questions, and outline the next steps. We will fight for the outcome you need to move forward with your life.