Texting while driving and using cell phones is strictly prohibited in North Carolina. Drivers under the age of 18 have to follow particular restrictions. Despite the existing traffic fines and criminal consequences, this reckless behavior continues. Therefore, the Wilmington-based personal injury attorneys at Shipman & Wright are advocating the imposition of punitive damages in civil cases against individuals who cause severe injuries while texting and driving. If you have been a victim of a distracted driver, we encourage you to contact us today. We offer a complimentary case evaluation to help you understand your legal options.
Personal injury lawsuits aim to compensate the victim for both economic and non-economic losses incurred due to the accident. While conventional damages serve this purpose, punitive damages are awarded to punish the defendant for their gross negligence or intentional wrongdoing.
North Carolina has a law that empowers courts to grant punitive damages to a plaintiff if they can prove the defendant’s willful or reckless actions with clear and convincing evidence. The purpose of awarding such damages is not only to penalize the defendant but also to discourage them and others from engaging in similar misconduct.
In car accident cases, our attorneys thoroughly investigate the evidence to determine the extent of the defendant’s negligence at the time of the accident. We also review their driving history and previous accident involvement to establish a pattern of disregarding traffic safety regulations. This comprehensive investigation helps us build a strong case to get the maximum compensation for our clients, including economic, non-economic, and punitive damages.
If you have been injured in an accident caused by a distracted driver texting while driving in North Carolina, our car accident lawyers at Shipman & Wright in Wilmington are here to help you. We provide a free consultation to discuss your case and are committed to fighting for your rights. We aim to seek compensation for all your injuries, including punitive damages. Judges and juries in North Carolina are increasingly inclined to grant punitive damages intended to discourage the at-fault driver from texting while driving in the future.
