If you were injured in a distracted driving accident in Springfield, Missouri, you need an experienced lawyer who understands how to prove the other driver was using their phone or engaged in other distracting activities at the time of the crash.
Distracted driving cases require immediate action to preserve crucial evidence like phone records and witness statements before they disappear. Missouri’s handheld phone ban now prohibits handheld phone use while driving, and violations can strengthen your injury claim significantly.
At Beck & Beck Missouri Car Accident Lawyers, we handle distracted driving cases across Missouri, including Springfield and Greene County.
We know exactly what evidence to gather, how to work with phone companies to obtain records, and which experts to consult to build the strongest possible case. Our attorneys Paul and John Beck personally handle each case, providing dedicated representation for injured clients.
When you’ve been hurt in a distracted driving accident in Springfield, Missouri, you need experienced legal help right away. At Beck & Beck Missouri Car Accident Lawyers, we’re the only law firm in Missouri that focuses exclusively on auto accident cases.
We have a long history of helping injured drivers and personally handle every case from start to finish. Attorneys Paul and John Beck personally handle every case from start to finish. You pay no fees unless we win your case, and we’re available 24/7 to take your call at (417) 788-6366.
How Our Distracted Driver Accident Lawyers in Springfield Assist With Your Claim
When you hire Beck & Beck Missouri Car Accident Lawyers, you get attorneys who understand exactly what it takes to prove distracted driving cases.
We handle everything so you can focus on getting better. Our team starts working on your case immediately to gather evidence before it disappears.
We investigate the crash scene, collect witness statements, and work with accident reconstruction experts when needed. Our lawyers also handle all communication with insurance companies so they can’t twist your words or pressure you into a quick settlement.
Here’s what we do for every client:
- Evidence Collection: We subpoena phone records, gather witness statements, and secure video footage from nearby businesses
- Medical Support: We connect you with trusted doctors and make sure your treatment is documented properly
- Insurance Negotiations: We deal with all insurance companies and fight for fair compensation
- Legal Protection: We file all paperwork and meet every deadline to protect your rights
You won’t pay any upfront costs, and we advance all expenses for your case. If we don’t win, you don’t owe us anything.
What Is Distracted Driving in Missouri
Distracted driving is any activity that takes your attention away from driving safely. This means looking away from the road, taking your hands off the wheel, or letting your mind wander while behind the wheel.
Missouri recognizes three main types of distractions that cause accidents:
- Visual Distractions: Looking at your phone, GPS, or anything else that takes your eyes off the road
- Manual Distractions: Taking your hands off the steering wheel to eat, drink, or adjust controls
- Cognitive Distractions: Daydreaming, having emotional conversations, or thinking about other things while driving
These distractions are especially dangerous on Springfield’s busy roads. A driver texting while approaching stopped traffic on Highway 65 might not brake in time. Someone adjusting their radio at the intersection of Sunshine Street and Glenstone Avenue could run a red light and cause a serious T-bone crash.
Is Cell Phone Use Illegal While Driving in Missouri
Missouri law makes it illegal for all drivers to use handheld phones while driving. The law, found in RSMo 304.820, specifically bans texting, emailing, and using apps while operating a vehicle.
You can only use your phone hands-free or in emergencies to call 911 or other first responders. If a driver breaks this law and hits you, it’s strong evidence they were negligent.
When someone violates Missouri’s phone laws and causes a crash, it can strengthen your injury claim significantly. In cases where the driver showed extreme recklessness, you might even be able to recover punitive damages on top of your other compensation.
What To Do After a Distracted Driving Crash in Springfield
The first few minutes after a crash are critical for your safety and your legal case. Stay calm and focus on protecting yourself and preserving evidence that could help prove the other driver was distracted.
Many distracted drivers will try to hide their phone or delete evidence right after a crash. Acting quickly can help preserve this crucial proof.
Steps To Take Right Away
Follow these steps in order to protect yourself and your case:
- If it’s safe, move to a secure location and call 911 for police and medical help
- Let EMTs check you over even if you feel fine — some injuries don’t show up right away
- Take photos of all vehicles, the road, and any visible phones or devices
- Talk to witnesses and get their contact information
- Ask nearby businesses whether their security cameras may have recorded the crash.
- Contact our experienced Springfield distracted driver accident attorneys before giving a statement to an insurance company.
Never admit fault or apologize at the scene. Even saying “I’m sorry” can be used against you later. Let the investigation determine what really happened.
Who Pays After a Distracted Driving Wreck
Missouri is an at-fault state, which means the distracted driver’s insurance company should pay for your damages. But insurance companies often try to deny claims or offer unfair settlements.
We identify every possible source of compensation for your case. This might include the at-fault driver’s personal insurance, their employer’s coverage if they were working, or your own insurance policies.
Coverage Type | Who Pays | When It Applies |
Liability Insurance | At-fault driver’s insurer | Covers your injuries when the other driver is responsible |
Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist | Your insurer | Protects you when the at-fault driver has no insurance or not enough |
Medical Payments (MedPay) | Your insurer | Pays immediate medical bills regardless of who caused the crash |
Understanding these coverage types helps ensure you don’t miss out on compensation you’re entitled to receive.
How We Prove the Other Driver Was Distracted
Proving distraction requires quick action and legal expertise. Unlike drunk driving, there’s no simple test for distraction after a crash. We use multiple investigation methods to build a strong case that shows exactly what the other driver was doing when they hit you.
Our team knows what evidence to look for and how to get it legally. We work with forensic experts and use legal tools that aren’t available to the general public.
Digital and Physical Evidence We Secure
We gather proof from many different sources to show the other driver was distracted:
- Phone Records: We subpoena detailed phone records including call logs, text timestamps, and app usage data to create a timeline
- Vehicle Data: Modern cars store information about speed, braking, and steering before crashes
- Digital Evidence: We check social media posts, email activity, and cloud backups
- Crash Scene Analysis: We work with experts to analyze skid marks and damage patterns
This evidence often shows that a distracted driver never even tried to avoid the crash. The data doesn’t lie, and it’s much more convincing than just witness testimony alone.
Signs the Other Driver Was Distracted
Certain crash patterns and driver behaviors strongly suggest distraction:
- No skid marks before impact, meaning the driver never saw the danger
- Drifting between lanes or onto the shoulder right before the crash
- Running through red lights or stop signs without slowing down
- A phone visible in the driver’s hand or on the dashboard after the accident
- Witnesses who saw the driver looking down or talking on the phone
When our skilled Springfield auto accident attorneys see these warning signs, we know exactly what evidence to pursue. Our experience helps us build cases that insurance companies can’t easily deny.
Common Accident Types and Injuries in Distraction Cases
Distracted drivers cause specific types of crashes because they react slowly or not at all. These accidents often result in severe injuries because the distracted driver doesn’t brake or swerve to reduce the impact.
Understanding these crash patterns helps us investigate your case more effectively. We know what to look for and how to prove the other driver’s distraction caused your specific type of accident.
Accident Types Linked to Distraction
- Rear-End Collisions: Rear-end collisions are the most common distracted driving crash, happening when drivers don’t notice stopped or slowing traffic
- T-Bone Accidents: T-bone accidents occur at intersections when distracted drivers run red lights or stop signs
- Head-On Collisions: Result from drivers drifting across center lines while looking at phones
- Sideswipe Crashes: Happen during lane changes when drivers don’t check blind spots
Each type of crash creates different injury patterns and requires different investigation approaches.
Injuries We See Most Often
Distracted driving crashes often cause serious injuries because they happen at full speed:
- Whiplash and Neck Injuries: Can cause chronic pain that affects your ability to work and sleep
- Brain Injuries: Even mild concussions can lead to memory problems and mood changes that last months
- Back and Spine Damage: May require surgery and can result in permanent disability
- Emotional Trauma: Many victims develop anxiety or fear about driving after being hit by a distracted driver
These injuries often get worse over time, which is why it’s important to see a doctor right away even if you feel okay initially.
What Damages Can You Recover
Missouri law allows you to recover compensation for every loss caused by the distracted driver’s negligence. We fight for full compensation that covers both your immediate needs and future expenses related to your injuries.
Insurance companies often try to settle quickly for far less than your case is worth. We make sure you understand the true value of your claim before accepting any offer.
Economic and Non-Economic Damages
We pursue two main types of compensation for our clients:
Economic Damages cover your financial losses:
- Medical expenses including emergency care, surgery, therapy, and medications
- Lost wages from time missed at work and reduced future earning capacity
- Vehicle repair or replacement costs
- Out-of-pocket expenses like transportation to medical appointments
Non-Economic Damages compensate for personal losses:
- Physical pain and emotional suffering caused by your injuries
- Loss of enjoyment if you can’t participate in activities you used to love
- Permanent scarring, disfigurement, or disability
- Negative effects on your relationships with family and friends
Both types of damages are important for getting your life back on track after a serious accident.
Punitive Damages in Texting Cases
When a driver’s behavior is especially reckless, Missouri law allows punitive damages. These are designed to punish the wrongdoer and prevent similar behavior in the future.
Texting while driving often qualifies for punitive damages because it shows conscious disregard for safety. The possibility of punitive damages can motivate insurance companies to offer much better settlements rather than risk a jury trial.
How Long Do You Have To File in Missouri
Missouri gives you five years from the date of your accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. For wrongful death cases, you only have three years. While this might seem like plenty of time, waiting too long can hurt your case.
Evidence disappears quickly after accidents. Surveillance footage gets deleted, witnesses forget details, and phone records become harder to obtain. Some situations have even shorter deadlines, especially claims against government entities.
The sooner you contact us, the better we can protect your rights and preserve crucial evidence for your case.
Why Hire a Springfield Distracted Driver Accident Lawyer
Distracted driving cases require specialized knowledge and quick action. Beck & Beck is uniquely qualified to handle these complex cases because we focus exclusively on Missouri auto accident law.
We understand the specific challenges of proving distraction and know how to overcome the tactics insurance companies use to deny these claims.
Our Springfield Focus and Results
Here’s what makes our firm different:
- Exclusive Focus: We’re the only Missouri law firm that handles only auto accident cases
- Personal Attention: Attorneys Paul and John Beck personally manage every case
- Local Knowledge: We understand Springfield courts and local insurance company tactics
- Proven Results: Decades of experience securing compensation for injured clients.
Our specialization means we know exactly what evidence to gather, which experts to consult, and how to present your case for maximum compensation. You won’t get this level of expertise from a general practice lawyer.
Contact Our Springfield Auto Accident Law Firm Today
Don’t let a distracted driver’s insurance company take advantage of you during this difficult time. We’re here to handle the legal fight while you focus on getting better.
We offer free consultations and never charge fees unless we win your case. Our team is available 24/7 because we know accidents don’t happen on a schedule. Call us now to get the experienced help you need and deserve.
FAQ
Can I Still Get Compensation if the Police Didn’t Give the Other Driver a Ticket?
Yes, you can still recover compensation even without a traffic citation. We can prove the other driver was distracted using phone records, witness statements, and accident reconstruction evidence that’s often more convincing than a simple ticket.
What if the Distracted Driver Was Using Hands-Free Technology?
Even hands-free phone use can be considered distraction if it contributed to the crash. We investigate whether the driver was having an intense conversation or using voice commands that took their attention away from driving safely.
How Quickly Do You Need to Preserve Phone Records and Video Evidence?
We act immediately because this evidence disappears fast. Phone companies typically delete detailed records after a few months, and businesses often erase security footage within days or weeks of recording it.
What if I Was Also Using My Phone at the Time of the Crash?
Under Missouri’s distracted driving laws, comparative fault still allows you to recover compensation even if you were partially at fault. Your settlement would be reduced by your percentage of blame, but we work hard to minimize any fault assigned to you.
Will My Insurance Rates Go Up if I Use My Own Coverage?
Using your MedPay or uninsured motorist coverage typically won’t raise your rates because you weren’t at fault for the accident. We help you understand your policy options without worrying about premium increases.
How Long Do Most Springfield Distracted Driving Cases Take to Resolve?
Most cases settle within 6 to 18 months, but complex cases requiring litigation may take longer. We never rush you to accept an inadequate settlement just to close the case quickly.
Can You Handle My Case if the Distracted Driver Was Working at the Time?
Yes, and this often means additional sources of compensation. Employers can be liable when their workers cause accidents while on the job, especially in truck accident cases, giving us more insurance coverage to pursue for your injuries.
