A Split-Second Glance at a Phone Changed Everything. We'll Fight for Your Recovery.
Distracted driving causes over 3,000 deaths and 400,000 injuries yearly. When a driver's inattention hurts you, our Athens personal injury attorneys hold them accountable.
Free Case ReviewDistracted Driving: A Growing Epidemic
Source: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
At Wells And McElwee P.C., we've watched distracted driving accidents increase dramatically over the past decade. What used to be an occasional case is now a daily occurrence in Northeast Georgia.
The consequences are devastating. Families lose loved ones. Victims face months or years of recovery. Medical bills pile up. Wages are lost. And the driver who caused it all? They were checking a text message.
We've had a front-row seat to the damage distracted driving causes, and we're committed to holding negligent drivers accountable for the harm they inflict.
Three Types of Distractions That Cause Accidents
Understanding how distractions work helps build stronger cases
Visual Distractions
Anything that takes your eyes off the road. Looking at your phone, checking GPS, eating, talking to passengers, or reading billboards.
Cognitive Distractions
Anything that takes your mind off driving. Talking on the phone, listening to intense podcasts, daydreaming, or being lost in thought.
Manual Distractions
Anything that takes your hands off the wheel. Texting, eating, adjusting the radio, searching for items, or grooming while driving.
Texting Is the Deadliest Distraction
Texting while driving combines all three types of distractions. It takes your eyes off the road, your hands off the wheel, and your mind off driving. At 55 mph, reading or sending a text means driving the length of a football field blindfolded.
Common Distracted Driving Behaviors We See
Technology-Related Distractions
- Texting or reading messages
- Talking on the phone (even hands-free)
- Using social media while driving
- Watching videos or taking photos
- Programming GPS or navigation
- Checking email or work messages
Other Common Distractions
- Eating or drinking while driving
- Reaching for items in the back seat
- Talking to or disciplining children
- Adjusting music, climate, or mirrors
- Grooming (makeup, shaving, hair)
- Reading maps, documents, or mail
Teen Drivers Face Higher Distraction Risks
Teen drivers are particularly vulnerable to distracted driving accidents. They lack experience managing distractions while operating a vehicle, and they're more likely to use cellphones, eat, and talk to passengers while driving.
If your teen was injured by a distracted driver, or if your teen made a mistake that hurt someone else, we can help you navigate the legal process with compassion and experience.
Parents can help prevent distracted driving by: Setting a good example, discussing the dangers openly, practicing safe driving habits together, and making it clear that phone use while driving is never acceptable.
How We Support You After A Distracted Driving Accident
You shouldn't have to fight this battle alone
We gather the evidence. Phone records, text logs, witness statements, traffic camera footage, accident reconstruction—we build the proof that the driver was distracted and that distraction caused your injuries.
We handle the insurance companies. Adjusters will try to minimize payouts or shift blame to you. We deal with them so you can focus on recovery.
We calculate your full damages. This isn't just about current medical bills. We account for future treatment, lost earning capacity, pain and suffering, and the long-term impact on your quality of life.
We fight for fair compensation. With over 250 jury trials to verdict, insurance companies know we're not bluffing when we say we'll go to court. That reputation often leads to better settlements.
We keep you informed. You'll never wonder what's happening with your case. We return calls the same day and explain every step in plain language.
Get Medical Care First, Then Call Us
Even if you don't think you were injured, see a doctor immediately after any accident. Some injuries don't show symptoms for days or weeks. Once you've been evaluated, contact us for a free consultation.
Free Consultation — Call (706) 543-8596Distracted Driving Accident FAQ
How do you prove the other driver was distracted?
We obtain phone records that show if they were texting or calling at the time of the accident. We also gather witness statements, review traffic camera footage, and work with accident reconstruction experts. Many distracted drivers admit to it at the scene or in their statements to police.
What if the driver says they weren't distracted?
Drivers often deny distraction to avoid liability. That's why we dig deeper. Phone records don't lie. Witness accounts reveal the truth. Accident patterns show when drivers weren't paying attention. We build cases based on evidence, not the at-fault driver's version of events.
Is hands-free phone use considered distracted driving?
Yes. Studies show that hands-free phone conversations are nearly as dangerous as handheld calls. While Georgia law allows hands-free use, it's still a cognitive distraction that can contribute to accidents. If a driver was on a hands-free call and caused your accident, we can still pursue compensation.
How long do I have to file a claim in Georgia?
Georgia's statute of limitations gives you two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. However, waiting too long can hurt your case. Evidence disappears. Witnesses forget details. The sooner you contact us, the stronger your case will be.
You Deserve Compassionate, Experienced Representation
Since 1977, we've helped accident victims in Northeast Georgia get the compensation they deserve. Your consultation is free, and you pay nothing unless we win your case.
Schedule Your Free ConsultationCall (706) 543-8596 or contact us online