Everyone makes mistakes, and unfortunately, some mistakes can follow you for a long time. Distracted driving is an easy misstep to make, and you may only be on your phone for a second, but it can change your life forever. If you have been accused of causing an accident by driving distracted, a Sacramento distracted driver accident lawyer can help you build your case, present your defense, and protect both your rights and your future.

Before you hire a distracted driver accident lawyer, it can be beneficial to learn more about what California law considers distracted driving, the penalties you may face if you are convicted, and how hiring the right lawyer for your case can prevent you from having to face said penalties.In 2023 alone, 3,275 people lost their lives because of distracted driving. While this is a 1% decrease from the previous year, reckless driving is taken very seriously by California law, as it can put many lives, including that of the distracted driver, in danger. Distracted driving can be defined as:
  • Holding a phone while driving. As of July 2025, California has implemented a “No Touch” law, making it illegal to hold a phone for any reason while driving.
  • Texting while driving. If you are caught texting while driving, or using your phone in any other way that does not involve making an emergency call, you can be charged with distracted driving.
  • Other various potential distractions. Eating, changing the radio, putting on makeup, dealing with children, fixing your hair, managing pets, reaching for something, and changing the temperature are all examples of additional distractions that could get you in legal trouble.

Since California law takes drivers’ safety so seriously, the potential penalties upon conviction can be severe. Here are some examples of what is at risk if you do not avoid a conviction:

  • Criminal charges. While not always the case, a driver may be dealt criminal charges if anyone was harmed or property was damaged due to their distracted driving.
  • Hefty fines. Even first offenses can result in a hefty fine, and future charges may increase the amount, as the law recognizes it as a pattern. 
  • License suspension or revocation. In California, you can get your license suspended or even revoked after accruing multiple distracted driving convictions. 
  • Additional driving record points. Distracted driving convictions can last on your record for a while, increasing your insurance premiums and potentially impacting any future distracted driving charges you may receive.

There are many reasons you may want to hire a distracted driver accident lawyer, starting with the peace of mind it can provide. Instead of getting lost in complex legal terminology, protocols, and procedures, your lawyer can guide you every step of the way. This can give you the confidence you need as you move forward with your case.

If you are called to appear in court, the case may be handled by the Sacramento Superior Court Traffic Division. A lawyer from Guenard and Bozarth, LLP can help you handle scheduling and preparation, and then advocate on your behalf to protect your rights and achieve optimal outcomes.

Q: How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Distracted Driver Accident Lawyer in California?

A: In the state of California, it is common for the cost of hiring a distracted driver accident lawyer to vary case by case. This tends to occur because of the unique way different factors may influence your final price, including who you hire to represent you, the level of complexity your case presents, and the amount of time your case requires to resolve. 

Q: Should I Tell My Distracted Driver Accident Lawyer Everything in California?

A: While you may feel uncomfortable or believe doing so is disadvantageous, telling your distracted driver accident lawyer every relevant detail of your case is an incredibly vital step in building a strong defense. If your lawyer knows everything, the likelihood of being surprised by the prosecution or unprepared in court diminishes drastically. By telling your lawyer everything, you are giving them the tools they need to craft a successful and airtight defense on your behalf. 

Q: How Long Will My Distracted Driver Accident Case Take to Resolve in California?

A: Similarly to the cost of hiring a lawyer, the amount of time needed for each distracted driving accident case tends to vary in the state of California. This is often due to several factors, including the availability of your local courthouse, the schedules of other parties, the severity of your charges, and the complexity of your case. At Guenard & Bozarth, LLP, we believe in helping you avoid delays and setbacks and in using your time efficiently. 

Q: Is Hiring a Distracted Driver Lawyer Worthwhile in Sacramento, California?

A: While everyone has a unique experience, many individuals, especially those who enlisted the help of Guenard & Bozarth, LLP, have found that hiring a distracted driver accident lawyer can be exactly what their case needs to achieve success. Not only can your lawyer improve your odds, but they can also defend your rights and desired outcomes. Legal terminology and procedures can be overwhelmingly complex, but your lawyer can make sure you understand what is going on at all times.

Guenard & Bozarth, LLP has helped many clients just like you protect their futures from being forever altered by one mistake. We have earned a reputation for getting results for Sacramento clients in situations similar to yours, and we can help you do the same. We offer client-centered care and can approach your case with our combined 60+ years of experience. Contact Guenard & Bozarth, LLP today to schedule a consultation and learn how we can help you protect your license, record, and future. 

Sacramento Practice Areas

VEHICLE ACCIDENTS

We will promptly investigate your car, motorcycle or truck crash to pursue maximum damages.

INJURIES ON PROPERTY

If you were injured by someone’s animal or unsafe property, we hold that owner accountable

Wrongful Death

Wrongful death is a legal term referring to a person who is fatally injured as a result of the negligence of another person or entity.

PERSONAL INJURY

We fight back when legitimate claims are unfairly denied by insurance companies.

INSURANCE BAD FAITH

Bad faith litigation is becoming more common as the insurance industry continues to engage in dishonest practices that trample the rights of policyholders.

INSURANCE COMPANIES KNOW US BECAUSE THEY’VE PAID OUR CLIENTS HUNDREDS OF MILLIONS OF DOLLARS.

$2.9

MILLION

CAR ACCIDENT INJURY

Guenard & Bozarth llp obtained a $2,962,903 jury verdict in the Sacramento County Superior Court for plaintiff David Schoonover, who suffered head and neck injuries and fractures in a head-on accident on Roseville Road in Roseville on July 22, 2012

$300

THOUSAND

HAIR SALON INJURY

Guenard & Bozarth LLP recently settled a case for $300,000 involving a hair weave that went terribly wrong. Our client was a young lady, and aspiring model, who experienced pressure necrosis from a tight weave and it changed her life.

$500

THOUSAND

SLIP & FALL INJURY

Guenard & Bozarth LLP recently settled a slip and fall case for $500,000 a couple weeks before trial. The client slipped and fell on a wet piece of cardboard in a grocery store and sustained a serious shoulder injury that required surgery.

$300

THOUSAND

NEGLIGENCE INJURY

On February 13, 2013 Maricela, a Certified Nursing Assistant presented to Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital Emergency Room with complaint of neck and back pain. She was diagnosed with a neck strain and was given Ibuprofen and instructed to return if her symptoms did not subside.

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Never in my life did I think I would recommend an attorney. Somehow God sent this angel of an attorney to assist me in my personal injury lawsuit. I was told by lawyers in Bakersfield that my lawsuit was frivolous because there was money in it.
– Bill
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I live in Elk Grove where we don’t always have a lot of choices. Lawyers are one area where we have few good choices. I wanted to work with a local law firm after my motorcycle accident, and I chose Glenn Guenard and Ross Bozarth.
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My daughter was involved in an automobile accident in an intersection on her 17th birthday. The other person said it was her fault and my daughter said her light was green. I am not the sort of person who sues but my insurance
– Sharon
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