When you’re hurt in a car accident in California, you can turn to Maison Law. Our car accident lawyers understand how the law works and can help you through the recovery process. With all the new technology available, it’s easier than ever to pass the time behind the wheel. Sometimes, this includes doing things like watching movies on the many screens that now come standard in many vehicles. But this can often lead to serious accidents–and injuries. Contact us today for a free consultation to get informed about what you can do in response.
California Law and Watching Movies While Driving
Not surprisingly, California law attempts to address the issues that can come up with new technology in vehicles. In most cars today, there are sizable screens that allow you to use your devices, get directions, and a number of other things to make your life easier. That said, these screens are so sizable as to also be distracting, particularly if you’re trying to use them while you’re driving.
According to California Vehicle Code Section 27602, it’s illegal to drive while using:
- A TV or video screen positioned in front of the driver’s seat or where the driver can see it while driving.
Because there’s so many options, though, there are some exceptions to this law. If the screen shows any of the following, it’s considered legal:
- Vehicle information
- GPS coordinates
- Maps or directions
- Front or rear view cameras meant to enhance your vision
Further, the law also allows you to use the screen to watch videos, movies, or broadcasts if:
- It has an ignition interlock device installed that goes off once the car is moving
- It doesn’t allow you to watch it while you’re driving your car under normal conditions
So, as it relates to the law, it’s probably not the best idea to watch a TV show or movie while you’re driving. In fact, if you’re doing so while there’s an accident, you’ll have a lot of explaining to do. And even if the accident wasn’t your fault, the fact that you were watching a movie is going to come into play.
How Will Watching a Movie During a Car Accident Impact Your Claim?
Just because you’re watching a movie and suffer a car accident doesn’t mean you can’t file an injury claim. However, the reality is that it’s going to impact your claim in a number of different ways. Most importantly, the concept of “comparative negligence” is going to come into play.
In California, comparative negligence holds that:
- Any percentage of fault you contribute to the accident will reduce your overall financial recovery by the same percentage.
For example, if you were watching a movie at the time of the accident and it’s determined that it contributed 25% to the accident, your potential damages will be reduced by that same 25%.
Obviously, any car accident carries its own unique circumstances. So, in these types of claims, it’s extremely important to make your case as strong as possible. Here’s how:
- Document the accident scene – Take pictures of the accident scene, including the vehicles involved, any relevant road signs, and the overall environment. This documentation can help provide context to the incident.
- Get witness statements – If there were witnesses to the accident, try to get their contact information and statements. Independent witnesses can provide valuable perspectives on what happened.
- Compile your medical records – Gather all medical records related to your injuries. Additionally, consider getting opinions from medical experts that can support your claim, explaining the extent of your injuries and their relation to the accident.
- Try to show evidence of others’ fault – If possible, gather evidence that highlights the other driver or party’s negligence or fault in the accident. This can help balance the responsibility and potentially reduce your level of fault.
So, the circumstances that surround your accident are very important to how it will play out. When you get hurt in a car accident, you’re going to need a lot of help to get back on your feet. And when you share some level of fault in the accident, part of that help can come from our experienced team.
How Can Our Lawyers Help You in These Accidents?
You don’t actually need a lawyer to file an injury claim in California. But your potential recovery is likely going to hinge on your ability to present a strong case for damages from the accident. To that end, our team can help you. Generally, we approach car accident cases by doing the following:
- Thoroughly and comprehensively investigating the accident
- Gathering and presenting important evidence
- Explaining your rights and what the best option is for you
- Helping you file an insurance claim, then negotiating with insurance companies
- Filing a personal injury lawsuit
Getting into a car accident can be frightening, and it becomes even more daunting if you share some of the responsibility. Even in such situations, where they claim you caused the accident, there are still avenues for you to explore. We’ll be there to help you.
Contact Maison Law For a Free Consultation
After you’ve been in a car accident where you were watching a screen or movie, it’s important to understand that you still have legal rights. At Maison Law, we can leverage our experience and approach to make sure you get the support you deserve. If you’ve been in one of these accidents, contact us today for a free, no-obligation consultation.
