Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of serious car accidents in Colorado, and the numbers continue to rise year after year.
According to national data, over 3,000 people are killed each year in crashes involving distracted drivers, and thousands more are seriously injured. Even more concerning, looking at a phone for just 5 seconds at highway speeds is like driving the length of a football field blindfolded.
As warmer weather approaches and more drivers take to the road for summer trips, the risk only increases.
If you’ve been injured by a distracted driver, understanding your rights and what compensation may be available is critical to protecting your recovery.
What Counts as Distracted Driving?
Many people think distracted driving only means texting, but it includes anything that takes your attention away from the road, such as:
- Using a phone (texting, scrolling, GPS)
- Eating or drinking while driving
- Adjusting music or navigation
- Talking to passengers
- Reaching for objects inside the vehicle
In Colorado, distracted driving is taken seriously, and if another driver’s inattention caused your crash, they may be held legally responsible.
What Compensation Can You Recover After a Distracted Driving Accident?
If another driver’s distraction caused your injuries, you may be entitled to compensation for:
Medical Expenses
This includes:
- Emergency room visits
- Hospital stays
- Surgeries and follow-up care
- Physical therapy and rehabilitation
Even minor injuries can lead to long-term medical costs, so it’s important to document everything.
Lost Income and Reduced Earning Capacity
If your injuries prevent you from working, you may recover:
- Lost wages from missed time at work
- Future lost income if you cannot return to your job
- Reduced earning capacity due to long-term injuries
For many clients, this is one of the most immediate financial stresses after an accident.
Pain and Suffering
Not all damages are financial.
You may also be compensated for:
- Physical pain
- Emotional distress
- Anxiety or trauma following the accident
- Loss of enjoyment in your daily life
These impacts are real, and they matter in your case.
Vehicle Damage and Related Costs
If your vehicle was damaged, you may also recover:
- Repair or replacement costs
- Rental vehicle expenses
- Loss of use of your vehicle
How Is Fault Proven in a Distracted Driving Case?
Proving distracted driving often requires strong evidence. This may include:
- Phone records showing activity at the time of the crash
- Police reports and citations
- Witness statements
- Traffic or dashcam footage
In many cases, insurance companies will try to minimize payouts or dispute fault—which is why having the right support early on can make a significant difference.
Why Distracted Driving Cases Can Be More Complex
Distracted driving accidents are often more complicated than they appear. Insurance companies may:
- Deny that the distraction occurred
- Argue shared fault
- Pressure you into accepting a low settlement
At the same time, injuries from these crashes can take days or weeks to fully appear—making proper documentation even more important.
What to Do After Being Hit by a Distracted Driver
If you’ve been involved in a crash, here are a few key steps:
- Seek medical attention immediately
- Document the scene with photos and videos
- Avoid discussing fault at the scene
- Do not post about the accident on social media
- Speak with an experienced personal injury attorney before accepting any settlement
Taking the right steps early can protect both your health and your claim.
Speak With a Colorado Car Accident Lawyer Today
At The Wilhite Law Firm, we help individuals injured in distracted driving accidents understand their rights and pursue the full compensation they deserve.
We handle the legal process so you can focus on recovery.
There are no fees unless we win your case.
If you or a loved one has been injured by a distracted driver, contact our team today for a free consultation.
