St. Louis Texting and Driving Accident Lawyer
Texting while driving is not just a harmless habit. It’s one of the deadliest forms of distracted driving, responsible for countless preventable accidents each year. In St. Louis, the consequences of these car accidents can be life-changing, leaving victims with serious injuries, emotional scars, and long-term financial challenges.
If you or someone you know has suffered from a texting and driving accident, it’s important to know your rights and explore your legal options. At Craig, Kelley & Faultless, LLC, our skilled attorneys are dedicated to helping you fight for the compensation you deserve so you can begin to rebuild your life with confidence. Contact us today for a free, no-obligation consultation to discuss your case.
The Dangers of Texting and Driving in St. Louis
Texting while driving is three kinds of distraction: it pulls your eyes away from the road, your hands away from the wheel, and your mind away from driving.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), taking your eyes off the road for just five seconds at 55 mph is equivalent to driving the length of a football field with your eyes closed. The risk increases exponentially in areas like St. Louis, where high traffic volumes and unpredictable road conditions demand constant attention.
Local roadways experience a concerning number of accidents caused by distracted drivers. Victims often sustain severe injuries, such as broken bones, spinal damage, and traumatic brain injuries. Tragically, some accidents even result in fatalities, leaving families heartbroken. Texting and driving statistics for Missouri show 414 fatalities on the road over a recent five-year period due to distracted driving — 109 of which happened in the St. Louis vicinity.
Missouri Distracted Driving Laws and How They Apply in Crash Cases
Missouri has laws in place to keep people from driving distracted. For instance:
- No driver can physically hold or support a cell phone while driving.
- No driver can type, write, send, or read text messages while driving.
- No driver can record, post, send, or broadcast video, including video calls and social media posts, while driving.
- No driver can watch a video or movie while driving.
Breaking traffic laws can leave you with hefty fines and penalties from the police. But the consequences go beyond just paying a ticket. If someone causes an accident by being distracted, such as by texting while driving, they could be responsible for covering the medical bills, rehab costs, lost wages, and any property damage another person suffers because of the crash. Just one moment of distraction can lead to long-lasting effects that stretch past law enforcement texting and driving penalties.
A skilled attorney can analyze the circumstances of your accident, determine if texting contributed to the crash, and build a case to hold the negligent party accountable.
How to Prove Liability in Texting and Driving Cases
Proving that a driver was texting during an accident can be challenging, but it’s not impossible. An experienced lawyer from Craig, Kelley & Faultless, LLC, can gather evidence to support your claim, such as:
- Cell Phone Records – These can reveal whether the driver was using their phone during the crash.
- Eyewitness Testimony – Passengers, bystanders, or other drivers may have seen the at-fault driver texting.
- Surveillance Footage – Traffic cameras or nearby security systems may capture the moments leading up to the collision.
- Crash Reconstruction – Experts can analyze skid marks, vehicle damage, and other factors to help demonstrate driver distraction.
Figuring out who’s at fault is key to getting the money you deserve for your injuries and losses.
Compensation Options for Victims of Texting and Driving Accidents
Victims of texting and driving accidents in St. Louis may be entitled to compensation for a range of losses, including:
- Medical Expenses – Hospital bills, surgeries, medications, and rehabilitation
- Lost Income – Lost wages from time off work or the difference in pay if your injuries prevent you from returning to your regular job and you’re making less money than before
- Pain and Suffering – Physical pain and emotional stress that came from the accident
- Property Damage – The cost of repairing or replacing your vehicle and other damaged belongings
Every situation is unique, and your compensation will be influenced by the severity of your injuries, the details surrounding the accident, and additional considerations. A knowledgeable attorney can ensure you understand the complete scope of your losses and pursue the justice and compensation you deserve.
Common Injuries from Texting and Driving Accidents
Texting and driving can cause devastating accidents that result in long-term injuries. The consequences can lead to outcomes such as:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
- Spinal cord injuries
- Broken or fractured bones
- Internal organ damage
- Severe cuts and lacerations
- Burns
- Emotional trauma, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
In some cases, victims require long-term medical care or face permanent disabilities. Dealing with these injuries’ physical, emotional, and financial impacts showcases why having a good lawyer on your side is necessary.
The Role of a St. Louis Texting and Driving Accident Lawyer
If you’ve been injured in a texting and driving accident, the right lawyer can make all the difference. At Craig, Kelley & Faultless, LLC, our skilled attorneys recognize the intricate challenges involved in distracted driving cases. We have the resources and experience needed to:
- Investigate the accident thoroughly
- Identify all liable parties
- Gather concrete evidence
- Negotiate with insurance companies
- Represent you in court, if necessary
Here’s what one client had to say about working with our team:
“I highly recommend anyone who has had an automobile accident hire Craig, Kelley, and Faultless Law Firm. You won’t be overwhelmed or alone, Craig, Kelley, and Faultless are there every step of the way. They always keep you up to date on your case and even send little gifts and literature to keep you educated on the process. They are definitely a top-notch law firm, that will get you what you deserve.”
– Donnie M.
When you choose us, you’re not just receiving a service. You’re gaining a dedicated partner who will handle your case with exceptional care and commitment. Our mission is to empower you to move forward with renewed confidence.
Call Craig, Kelley & Faultless, LLC, Today
If you have been involved in a texting and driving accident in St. Louis, don’t wait. When it comes to getting justice, timing really matters. Turn to the experienced team at Craig, Kelley & Faultless, LLC, for a free consultation today. We’re here to listen to your story, address your concerns, and help you pursue the compensation you need and deserve for injuries due to a distracted driving accident. Reach out to us by phone or online, and let’s take the first step together toward getting you the support you need.