Texting and driving accidents have become increasingly common on Kansas City roads, putting innocent people at risk. These accidents are particularly frustrating because they are completely preventable—no message is worth the risk of causing a collision that could permanently affect someone’s life. If you or a loved one was injured by a distracted driver, you may have grounds for legal action; here is what you need to know about pursuing the compensation you deserve.
What Are the Laws on Texting and Driving in Kansas City?
Missouri and Kansas have enacted strict laws to combat texting while driving. Under Missouri §304.822, drivers are prohibited from physically holding or supporting any electronic communication device while operating a vehicle. The law permits voice-activated technology but bans reading, writing, or sending text messages, emails, or social media content. Similarly, Kansas forbids writing, sending, or reading text communications while driving under K.S.A. § 8-15,111.
What Injuries Can Happen in a Texting and Driving Crash?
When a driver sends or reads a text message, their eyes leave the road for an average of 5 seconds; this is enough time to travel the length of a football field at highway speeds. When drivers take their eyes off the road to read or send messages, they may not notice stopped vehicles, pedestrians, or changing road conditions until it’s too late to avoid a serious crash.
These accidents can cause severe injuries, such as:
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Multiple bone fractures
- Internal organ damage
- Chronic pain
- Whiplash
- Post-traumatic stress disorder
What to Do If You Are in an Accident with a Distracted Driver
If you are hit by a distracted driver in Kansas City, you have the right to pursue a legal claim and recover compensation to help pay for your medical care, lost wages, and other losses. Depending on where the accident occurred, different systems apply. Missouri follows a traditional fault-based system where you can pursue a claim directly against the at-fault driver, while Kansas uses a no-fault system requiring you to first seek compensation through your insurance. You can file a claim against the distracted driver if your injuries meet certain thresholds.
After the accident, it is important to act quickly and decisively. Protect your health and legal rights by taking the following steps:
- Call 911 immediately to report the accident and request emergency medical assistance.
- Document the accident scene by taking photos of vehicle damage, skid marks, road conditions, and any visible injuries you have sustained.
- Gather contact information from witnesses who saw the other driver using their phone before or during the collision.
- Seek medical attention as soon as possible. Some injuries may not show symptoms immediately, so make sure to go to the doctor whether or not you feel hurt.
- Keep detailed records of all medical treatments, missed work time, and accident-related expenses.
- Contact a car accident lawyer in Kansas City to discuss your legal options and initiate your claim.
Discuss Your Case with Dollar, Burns, Becker, and Hershewe
Texting and driving is illegal for a reason. If you were injured by a distracted driver in Kansas City, trust Dollar, Burns, Becker, & Hershewe to hold the negligent party accountable and recover the compensation that you deserve. Contact us at (816) 876-2600 to speak with our Kansas City personal injury attorneys and learn how we can help you rebuild your life after a distracted driving accident.