The Impact of Distracted Driving on Omaha’s Roads
Distracted driving has become one of the leading causes of vehicle accidents across the United States—and Omaha is no exception. Whether it’s texting behind the wheel, using a navigation app, or reaching for a dropped object, distracted drivers are putting lives at risk every day.
If you’ve been injured due to another driver’s negligence, Bottlinger Law L.L.C. is here to help.
Distracted Driving in Omaha
Distracted driving isn’t just about texting. It includes any activity that takes your hands off the wheel, eyes off the road, or mind off driving. This can include:
- Using a cell phone
- Eating or drinking
- Adjusting the radio or GPS
- Talking to passengers
- Reaching for items inside the vehicle
In Omaha, local law enforcement and transportation officials have noticed a steady rise in distracted driving-related collisions, especially among younger drivers and commuters navigating congested areas during peak hours.
Omaha Traffic Accident Statistics
Recent Omaha traffic accident statistics reveal a concerning trend:
- In 2023, distracted driving was a factor in nearly 1 out of every 5 crashes in Douglas County.
- More than 30% of rear-end collisions in the city were linked to cell phone use.
- Fatal crashes involving distracted drivers increased by over 15% statewide.
These numbers paint a clear picture that distracted driving isn’t just careless—it’s dangerous and often deadly.
Nebraska Distracted Driving Laws
Texting While Driving Is Illegal
Nebraska’s distracted driving laws prohibit any driver from texting while driving. This includes composing, reading, or sending texts or emails using a handheld device.
Texting while driving in Omaha is a secondary offense for adult drivers—meaning a police officer must witness another traffic violation in order to cite a driver for texting. However, for drivers under 18, it’s a primary offense, and they can be stopped solely for that reason.
Hands-Free Laws for Commercial Drivers
Commercial drivers and school bus operators are required to use hands-free devices when making or receiving phone calls. Violating this law can result in steep fines and points against their commercial license.
Penalties for Texting While Driving
Penalties for texting while driving in Nebraska include:
- Fines of $200 to $500
- Three points on the driver’s license
- Possible insurance rate increases
But the real cost often comes in the form of liability if the distracted driver causes a crash.
Distracted Driving Causes Accidents
Distracted driving impacts reaction time, awareness, and decision-making. Common accident types associated with distraction include:
- Rear-end collisions: The driver doesn’t notice the vehicle in front has slowed or stopped.
- Side-impact crashes: Especially at intersections, where a distracted driver fails to yield.
- Pedestrian and cyclist accidents: Drivers often overlook crosswalks and bike lanes while focused on their devices.
These accidents can result in serious injuries, such as broken bones, spinal injuries, traumatic brain injuries, and even fatalities.
Legal Implications of Distracted Driving in Omaha
If a driver is found to have been distracted at the time of a crash, they may face civil liability under Nebraska law. This includes financial responsibility for:
- Medical expenses
- Property damage
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Long-term care needs
- Wrongful death (in fatal cases)
In some instances, the distracted driver may also face punitive damages, especially if the conduct was considered grossly negligent, such as texting at high speed in a school zone.
Building a Driver Negligence Claim
If you’ve been injured in an accident and suspect the other driver was distracted, building a successful driver negligence claim requires strong evidence. This might include:
- Police reports referencing distracted behavior
- Cell phone records showing texting or calling at the time of the crash
- Surveillance or dashcam footage
- Witness testimony
- Vehicle data that tracks sudden braking or erratic movements
An experienced distracted driving attorney can help collect and interpret this evidence to strengthen your case.
What to Do If You’ve Been in a Distracted Driving Accident
If you or a loved one is involved in an accident caused by distracted driving in Omaha, take the following steps:
- Get medical attention immediately, even if injuries seem minor.
- Call law enforcement so the incident is officially documented.
- Gather evidence, including photos, witness info, and driver statements.
- Avoid making statements to the other party’s insurance company without legal advice.
- Contact a distracted driving attorney to understand your rights.
How Bottlinger Law L.L.C. Can Help
At Bottlinger Law L.L.C., we understand the toll a car accident can take—physically, financially, and emotionally. When you’re injured because someone else couldn’t keep their eyes on the road, you deserve accountability and compensation.
Led by attorney Jason Bottlinger, our firm brings over a decade of litigation experience. We’ve been recognized among the Best Car Accident Attorneys serving Omaha and are members of the Million and Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum, representing clients who have received substantial settlements.
We handle distracted driving cases involving:
- Rear-end crashes
- Pedestrian and bicycle accidents
- Multi-vehicle collisions
- Commercial vehicle incidents
- Catastrophic injury claims
When you work with us, we fight for maximum compensation—whether through negotiation or trial—so you can focus on healing.
Preventing Distracted Driving: Tips for All Drivers
While our firm is here when things go wrong, we also believe in promoting road safety. Here are a few ways to help reduce distracted driving in Omaha:
For All Drivers
- Use hands-free devices only
- Activate Do Not Disturb mode while driving
- Pre-program your route before you leave
- Avoid multitasking behind the wheel
For Parents
- Talk with your teens about phone use and driving
- Set rules around phone-free driving time
- Consider monitoring apps to track phone activity during trips
For Employers
- Establish clear distracted driving policies for company drivers
- Train staff on safe driving practices
- Use telematics to monitor risky driving behavior
Holding Distracted Drivers Accountable
An Omaha distracted driving accident can change lives in seconds. Whether you were hit by someone looking at their phone or are trying to protect your legal interests after a crash, the most important thing you can do is seek experienced legal counsel.
Speak With a Trusted Distracted Driver Accident Attorney in Omaha
Don’t let a distracted driver’s careless actions upend your life. At Bottlinger Law L.L.C., we offer compassionate and aggressive representation for accident victims across Nebraska.
Call us today at (402) 505-8234 for a free consultation. Our Omaha car accident lawyer will listen to your story, investigate your case, and fight for every dollar you’re owed—because you shouldn’t have to pay the price for someone else’s distraction.
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