Distracted Driving Accidents

Proving distracted driving can be complex, but with the right legal strategy and resources, it’s entirely possible. At Georgelis, Larsen & Sabatino Injury Law Firm, P.C., we’ve successfully built cases around both direct and circumstantial evidence. We begin by gathering police reports, eyewitness accounts, and any available surveillance or dashcam footage. One of the most crucial pieces of evidence is the at-fault driver’s phone records, which can confirm texting or call activity during the time of the crash. 

In some cases, vehicle black boxes (event data recorders) may provide insight into the driver’s behavior just before impact. We also work with accident reconstruction experts to analyze the scene and determine whether the driver made any evasive maneuvers or braked prior to the crash- actions a focused driver typically takes. Additionally, statements made by the driver or passengers at the scene can support the distraction claim. 

Our firm knows how to pursue this evidence quickly and effectively- before it disappears. We also send preservation-of-evidence letters when necessary to prevent phone carriers or third parties from deleting vital data. The sooner you contact us, the better your chances of proving distracted driving occurred.

Victims of distracted driving accidents are often entitled to several types of damages under Pennsylvania law. These can be classified as economic and non-economic damages. Economic damages include tangible losses such as medical bills (past and future), lost wages, loss of earning capacity, rehabilitation expenses, and out-of-pocket costs. Non-economic damages compensate for pain and suffering, emotional distress, loss of enjoyment of life, and in some cases, disfigurement or permanent disability. 

At Georgelis, Larsen & Sabatino Injury Law Firm, P.C., we work closely with medical experts, vocational specialists, and financial professionals to assess the full scope of your losses. Our goal is not only to secure compensation for your current needs but also to anticipate future expenses or life changes caused by the accident. If the distracted driver’s conduct was particularly reckless or egregious, we may also pursue punitive damages- intended to punish the wrongdoer and deter others from similar behavior.

Yes. In Pennsylvania, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury lawsuit related to a distracted driving accident is two years from the date of the crash. This means you have two years to file a legal claim in civil court seeking compensation for your injuries, or you may forfeit your right to do so entirely. 

However, there are exceptions. For example, if the injured party is a minor, the statute may be tolled (paused) until they turn 18. Similarly, if the accident resulted in death, a wrongful death claim must be filed within two years of the date of death, not necessarily the accident itself. 

It’s important to act swiftly. Over time, evidence can be lost, memories fade, and insurance companies become more difficult to negotiate with. At Georgelis, Larsen & Sabatino, we help our clients navigate these deadlines and take immediate action to protect their rights. Don’t wait- reach out to us as soon as possible after the accident.

Yes, you may still be eligible for compensation, thanks to Pennsylvania’s comparative negligence rule. Under this rule, you can recover damages as long as you were less than 51% at fault for the accident. However, your total compensation will be reduced by the percentage of fault attributed to you.

For instance, if you were found to be 20% at fault for the accident and your total damages were $100,000, you would still receive $80,000. It’s important to have experienced legal representation to ensure fault is assessed fairly and not exaggerated by the opposing party or insurance companies trying to minimize payouts.

Insurance companies often approach distracted driving claims with skepticism, particularly if there’s limited direct evidence of distraction. Their main goal is to limit liability and reduce the amount of compensation paid to accident victims. They may question the severity of your injuries, argue that your medical treatment was excessive, or even suggest that you shared fault in the accident.

This is why it’s essential to have experienced legal representation when dealing with insurers. At Georgelis, Larsen & Sabatino, we take over all communications with the insurance companies so that our clients don’t have to worry about being misled or pressured into accepting a lowball offer. We also present robust evidence- such as phone records, expert testimony, and medical documentation- to prove the extent of the defendant’s negligence and the impact of your injuries. 

When necessary, we pursue litigation to hold insurers accountable and to ensure our clients receive the full compensation they deserve. Insurance companies take us seriously- because they know we’re not afraid to take a case to trial if that’s what it takes.

If you’ve been involved in an accident and suspect the other driver was distracted, your first priority should be your safety and health. Call 911 and request emergency medical attention if needed. Make sure a police report is filed, and inform the officer if you believe the other driver was texting, on the phone, or otherwise distracted. 

If it’s safe, collect evidence at the scene. This may include taking photographs of the vehicles, roadway conditions, license plates, and any visible injuries. Try to get contact information from witnesses who may have seen the other driver’s behavior prior to the crash. If the at-fault driver admits to being distracted, document it or let the responding officer know. 

Once your immediate medical needs are addressed, contact an experienced distracted driving attorney as soon as possible. The sooner we can begin an investigation, the better your chances of preserving key evidence and building a strong case. Our team at Georgelis, Larsen & Sabatino is ready to jump into action to protect your rights.

At Georgelis, Larsen & Sabatino Injury Law Firm, P.C., we handle all distracted driving accident cases on a contingency fee basis. This means you pay nothing upfront, and we only get paid if we recover compensation on your behalf- either through a settlement or court award. 

We believe that every injured victim deserves quality legal representation, regardless of their financial situation. Our initial consultations are completely free, and during that time, we’ll evaluate your case, explain your legal options, and answer any questions you may have. If we take on your case, we’ll handle all the costs associated with filing, investigation, expert witnesses, and negotiations. 

We only succeed when you do- and we are fully committed to fighting for the compensation you rightfully deserve. You’ll never pay us anything unless we win your case.

Yes. If your loved one was tragically killed in an accident caused by a distracted driver, Pennsylvania law allows certain family members- typically spouses, children, or parents- to file a wrongful death claim. This type of lawsuit seeks compensation for funeral and burial costs, loss of financial support, loss of companionship, and emotional suffering. 

Our firm understands that no amount of money can replace the loss of a loved one, but we also know that holding the responsible party accountable is an important step in achieving justice and closure. We will handle your case with the utmost sensitivity and respect, while aggressively pursuing the compensation your family is entitled to under the law. 

We’ll also preserve evidence, speak with witnesses, and consult accident reconstruction and phone record experts to prove distracted driving played a role in your loved one’s death. Let our compassionate and skilled attorneys take on the legal burden so you can focus on healing.

Choosing the right attorney after a serious accident can make all the difference. At Georgelis, Larsen & Sabatino Injury Law Firm, P.C., we bring decades of combined experience handling complex motor vehicle accident claims- including those involving distracted drivers. We have recovered millions of dollars for injury victims in Lancaster and throughout Pennsylvania. 

What sets us apart is our personalized approach and relentless pursuit of justice. We don’t treat you like a case number- we treat you like family. From the moment you contact us, we’ll provide clear guidance, frequent updates, and direct access to your attorney- not just staff members. We also have a track record of success at trial, which means insurance companies know we’ll go the distance if necessary. 

We know how to build strong, evidence-based cases and will not rest until every responsible party is held accountable. Let us help you recover what you’ve lost- and give you peace of mind along the way.