Texting and Driving Accidents​: How Much are they Worth?

Distracted driving has become one of the most dangerous behaviors on California roads. Among all distractions, texting and driving accidents stand out as some of the most severe, leading to devastating injuries and costly damages. Texting and driving accidents​ can instantly change a person’s life, leaving them with physical pain, emotional trauma, and significant financial losses. 

If you or someone you love was injured because another driver was texting behind the wheel, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries, expenses, and suffering. To recover damages after a texting-related crash, victims often rely on experienced car accident lawyers in California. Having legal aid can highly increase your chances of obtaining compensation for accidents caused by distracted drivers.

Schedule a consultation with Megeredchian Law by calling (866) 359-0807. We can evaluate your case within minutes and determine whether you qualify for compensation. If you do, we’ll assign an experienced lawyer to start working on your claim right away.

Why Texting and Driving Accidents Are So Dangerous

Texting while driving combines all three types of distraction—visual, manual, and cognitive. When a driver reads or sends a message, their eyes leave the road, their hands leave the wheel, and their mind drifts away from driving. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), taking your eyes off the road for just five seconds at 55 mph is like driving the length of a football field blindfolded.

Even a single moment of distraction can cause catastrophic results—rear-end collisions, sideswipes, and high-speed crashes are common outcomes of texting behind the wheel. Victims of these crashes often face extensive medical bills, property damage, lost income, and in severe cases, permanent disability or death.

Average Settlement Value of Texting and Driving Cases

The value of a texting and driving accident claim varies depending on several factors, including:

• Severity of injuries – Serious or long-term injuries like spinal cord damage, traumatic brain injuries, or multiple fractures increase settlement value.
• Medical expenses – The cost of hospital stays, surgeries, medication, rehabilitation, and future medical care can significantly influence compensation.
• Lost income and earning capacity – Victims who are unable to work temporarily—or permanently—may recover compensation for lost wages and reduced earning potential.
• Pain and suffering – Emotional distress, trauma, and diminished quality of life are important components of a claim.
• Property damage – Vehicle repair or replacement costs are often included in settlements.
• Degree of negligence – If the at-fault driver’s texting behavior was especially reckless, such as during a high-speed crash or while driving in a school zone, punitive damages may apply.

While each case is unique, settlements for texting and driving accidents in California often range from $25,000 to several hundred thousand dollars, depending on the circumstances. In severe injury or wrongful death cases, verdicts can exceed $1 million.

Economic and Non-Economic Damages

Victims of texting and driving accidents can recover both economic and non-economic damages.

• Economic damages include measurable financial losses such as:
  
  • Current and future medical expenses
  • Lost wages
  • Vehicle repair or replacement
  • Rehabilitation and therapy costs
    
• Non-economic damages compensate for emotional and psychological suffering, including:
  
  • Pain and suffering
  • Emotional distress
  • Loss of enjoyment of life
  • Loss of companionship (in wrongful death cases)

In cases where the driver’s actions were particularly reckless or malicious, courts may also award punitive damages to punish the offender and discourage similar conduct in the future.

Wrongful Death Claims from Texting and Driving Accidents

When texting and driving leads to a fatal crash, surviving family members may file a wrongful death claim. Compensation in these cases may include funeral expenses, loss of financial support, and emotional suffering. Although no amount of money can replace a loved one, a successful claim can bring financial stability and a sense of justice to grieving families.

The Role of Insurance Companies

Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts in texting and driving cases. Adjusters may argue that the victim shared fault, offer low settlements, or delay claims. It’s crucial to avoid giving recorded statements or signing documents without legal advice.

An attorney can handle all communication with insurers, ensuring your claim is backed by strong evidence and protecting you from unfair tactics. They can also take your case to trial if the insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement.

How Long Do You Have to File a Claim?

In California, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim is generally two years from the date of the accident. If you fail to file within this period, you may lose your right to recover compensation. However, exceptions exist for cases involving minors or government entities, so consulting a lawyer early is vital.

Proving Negligence in Texting and Driving Accidents

Proving that the other driver was texting at the time of the crash is key to securing fair compensation. Your attorney may use multiple forms of evidence to establish negligence, including:

• Phone records showing call or text activity during the time of the accident.
• Traffic camera or dashcam footage capturing the driver using their phone.
• Eyewitness testimony from passengers or other motorists.
• Police reports documenting distracted driving as a contributing factor.
• Expert accident reconstruction, showing that the driver’s lack of attention caused the crash.

California law prohibits all drivers from using handheld devices while driving. Violating this law not only results in fines and penalties but also strengthens your civil case if you were injured by a distracted driver.

Preventing Texting and Driving Accidents

While laws and penalties exist to discourage distracted driving, prevention starts with individual responsibility. Simple actions such as turning off notifications, using “Do Not Disturb” mode, or placing your phone out of reach can save lives. Many modern vehicles also feature built-in technologies that block incoming texts or calls while driving.

Get Legal Help From an Experienced Firm Today

If you were injured in a texting and driving accident, don’t wait to seek help. The legal process can be complex, and evidence can quickly disappear. Having a dedicated law firm by your side ensures your rights are protected and that you pursue every available source of compensation.

At Megeredchian Law, our attorneys have decades of experience representing victims of distracted and negligent drivers across California. We are committed to helping you recover the compensation you deserve for your injuries, lost wages, and emotional suffering.Call us today at (866) 359-0807 for a free, no-obligation consultation. Let our team fight for your rights and help you move forward after a texting and driving accident.