Distracted Driving in San Diego: A Growing Concern

By Eugene Bruno on December 5, 2025

With the rise of cell phone use, distracted driving has become one of the most pressing road safety issues in San Diego and across the nation. If you were injured by a distracted driver, your attorney can collect evidence like phone logs to demonstrate liability.

The San Diego distracted driver accident attorneys at Eugene Bruno & Associates, have over 85 years of combined experience and a 99.7% success rate. Our legal team is committed to holding negligent drivers accountable and seeking the money you need to cover the cost of your medical treatment and other expenses.

What Is Distracted Driving?

Distracted driving is any activity that diverts attention from driving. This can include:

• Texting while driving
• Talking on the phone
• Eating or drinking
• Adjusting the radio
• Using in-car technology or GPS
• Turning to talk to passengers

In a recent year, 148 people were killed in California by crashes involving a distracted driver, and these numbers continue to rise. Even a few seconds of inattention can lead to catastrophic results. In fact, when a driver takes their eyes off the road for five seconds at 55 mph, it is equivalent to driving the length of a football field while blindfolded.

The Role of Texting While Driving

Among all distractions, texting while driving remains among the most dangerous. It combines three serious types of distraction:

• Visual: Taking your eyes off the road
• Manual: Taking your hands off the wheel
• Cognitive: Taking your mind off driving

Texting while driving dramatically increases the risk of crashing. In California, it is illegal to use a handheld device while driving for texting, email messages, or checking social media. But many drivers continue to text behind the wheel, and this has tragic results.

Eugene Bruno & Associates has represented numerous clients injured by drivers who were texting or otherwise distracted. In many cases, a single careless moment has led to serious injuries, lost income, mounting medical bills, and long-term emotional trauma.

You Have the Right to Seek Compensation From Negligent Drivers

When a driver causes an accident because of distraction, they may be considered legally negligent. Under California law, all drivers owe a duty of care to others on the road. That means avoiding actions that could cause reasonably foreseeable harm to drivers, pedestrians, cyclists, motorcycle riders, and passengers traveling in other vehicles. Failing to maintain attention and control while driving is a serious breach of that duty.

If you or a loved one has been injured by a distracted driver, you have the right to file a personal injury claim or lawsuit seeking compensation for damages that may include:

• Medical expenses
• Lost wages
• Pain and suffering
• Assisted living care
• Rehabilitation and physical therapy

At Eugene Bruno & Associates, we carefully investigate each case to determine whether driver negligence played a role. This involves examining evidence such as phone records, traffic camera footage, witness testimony, and police reports. Our goal is to build a strong case that supports your right to fair compensation.

Finding the Right Lawyer

Filing a personal injury claim is not just about financial recovery – it’s about justice. At Eugene Bruno & Associates, we believe that negligent drivers must be held accountable for the harm they cause. Our legal team provides personal, hands-on attention to every case. We understand the local courts in San Diego County and we know how to present a compelling case.

No two cases are the same. That’s why we take the time to understand your story, your injuries, and the impact the crash has had on your life. Then we fight for the full compensation you deserve.

If you’ve been injured in a distracted driving accident in San Diego, do not wait to seek help. The sooner we can begin building your case, the stronger your claim will be.

If you were injured by a distracted driver in San Diego, it’s important to act quickly to protect your health, your legal rights, and your ability to recover financial compensation.

1. Get Medical Attention Immediately
   Your health comes first. Even if your injuries seem minor, some symptoms may take time to appear. Prompt medical treatment creates a clear record of your injuries, which is vital if you later file a personal injury claim.
2. Report the Accident
   Call 911 and make sure a police report is filed. Tell the officer if you suspect the other driver was distracted (e.g., using a phone or eating). This documentation can serve as key evidence in proving driver negligence.
3. Gather Evidence at the Scene
   If you’re physically able, take photos of vehicle damage, skid marks, traffic signals, and your injuries. Get the contact information of witnesses who may have seen the driver acting distracted.
4. Do Not Admit Fault or Downplay Injuries
   Avoid making statements that could be used against you later. Insurance companies may try to minimize your claim or deny it altogether.
5. Contact a San Diego Personal Injury Attorney
   An experienced personal injury attorney can investigate the crash, gather phone records or video footage, and negotiate with insurers on your behalf.

At Eugene Bruno & Associates, we’ve helped countless San Diego injury victims hold negligent drivers accountable. If you’ve been hurt by a distracted driver, call 1-888-BRUNO-88 (1-888-278-6688) or fill out our online contact form for a free consultation. We’re here to help you pursue justice and fair compensation.

Speak With a Trusted Car Accident Lawyer in San Diego

Eugene Bruno has been recognized by Expertise.com as one of the best car accident lawyers in San Diego, and we’ve recovered over 100 million dollars for our clients. If you or someone you love has been injured because another driver failed to pay attention, it’s time to pursue your legal rights.

Call 1-888-BRUNO-88 (1-888-278-6688) to schedule a free consultation today.