Rapid City Distracted Driving Accident Attorney
Experienced Attorneys Fighting for Distracted Driving Accident Victims
At Beardsley, Jensen & Lee, we understand the devastating consequences that distracted driving accidents can have on victims and their families. If you or a loved one has been injured in a distracted driving accident in Rapid City, South Dakota, our dedicated team of attorneys is here to help you seek justice and compensation. With our extensive experience in personal injury law, we are committed to representing your best interests and holding negligent drivers accountable.
What Is Considered Distracted Driving?
Distracted driving refers to any activity that diverts a driver's attention from the primary task of driving. These distractions can be categorized into three main types:
- Visual Distractions: Anything that takes a driver's eyes off the road, such as texting, reading, or using a navigation system.
- Manual Distractions: Activities that require a driver to take their hands off the steering wheel, like eating, drinking, or adjusting the radio.
- Cognitive Distractions: Mental distractions that divert a driver's focus away from driving, such as daydreaming or having a deep conversation.
Distracted driving can lead to accidents, injuries, and even fatalities. It is a preventable behavior that poses a significant risk to everyone on the road.
South Dakota's Distracted Driving Laws
South Dakota's Distracted Driving Laws have undergone significant changes. Historically, the state prohibited texting and driving, imposing fines on individuals caught writing, sending, or reading text messages while driving. However, this law did not extend to other cellphone activities, permitting drivers to engage in activities like scrolling through social media, taking pictures and videos, or browsing the internet.
The landscape has evolved with the introduction of House Bill 1169. This bill empowers law enforcement to stop drivers and charge them with a Class 2 misdemeanor for merely holding or handling a cellphone while operating a vehicle. Conviction under this law can result in penalties of up to 30 days in jail and fines of up to $500.
There are exceptions to this stringent law, including:
- Using a cellphone for emergency purposes or dialing 911.
- Utilizing a GPS navigation system.
- Making or receiving phone calls.
- Operating a cellphone that is connected to a hands-free device or is voice-activated.
However, it is essential to note that apart from these exceptions, drivers must be parked in a legitimate parking spot to use their cellphones while in a vehicle. These changes reflect a stricter approach to combat distracted driving and enhance road safety in South Dakota.
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Even before I became a client I was taken care of. It was a long battle but I can honestly say I never felt worried, I knew I had an entire team working for me. It didn't matter at what point we were in the legal process, I was always well protected.- Shannon H.
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This was my second case working with the Beardsley Law Team after an auto collision. They were knowledgeable, professional, and personable and kept me informed every step of the way. They are amazing!- Deanine R.
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Brad Lee and his team are amazing and really stood up for us when we needed it! We always knew what was happening and he always took the time to explain the process and set clear expectations. No question or concern was too small.- Brad & Tara F.
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I was in a severe workplace accident. Became permanently disabled. I lost everything. The team of Beardsley, Jensen & Lee went to bat for me. They answered every question I had. I do not know what I would have done without them.- Troy H.
