The California car accident lawyers at BISNAR | CHASE have represented numerous victims who have been seriously injured because of negligent drivers. It is a fact that a number of these negligent drivers were distracted at the time of the collision. If we look at our own driving habits, I'm sure we can come up with at least a few times a day when we were distracted. It could have been something as minor as changing a CD, reaching for something your child wanted or fumbling with the temperature controls or GPS. All these are distractions and when you take your attention off the road even for a few seconds, you are exposing yourself, your passengers and others on the roadway to risk of injury or death.
Cell Phone and Texting Laws
A news report in the Contra Costa Times shows that more and more drivers in California are doing something else while driving. California law prohibits drivers from texting or using a handheld cell phone while driving. According to California Vehicle Code Section 23123 (a): "A person shall not drive a motor vehicle while using a wireless telephone unless that telephone is specifically designed and configured to allow hands-free listening and talking, and is used in that manner while driving."
Distracted Driving Statistics
Still, according to California Highway Patrol officials, the number of citations issued for hand-held cell phones has increased in California – from 7,779 in July 2008 to 12,761 in July 2009. Since the hand-held law became effective, CHP officials have issued a total of 173,616 citations for violations. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), all forms of distracted driving caused 515,000 personal injuries and 5,870 fatalities in 2008, nationally.
Drive Safely and Responsibly
It doesn't take an expert to see that our addiction to information and the need to stay in touch, even while driving, can be disastrous. We're texting, shopping online, sending out and receiving e-mails -- all while driving! A recent study performed by the University of Utah shows that those who send out text messages while driving are six times more likely to crash.
It's time for us to remind ourselves that our vehicles are not entertainment centers. They are not extensions of our living rooms where we can feel free to apply makeup, eat, text or talk on the phone. Driving is a privilege and it must be held with responsibility. If you injure or kill someone as a result of your distracted driving, you could be held criminally and civilly liable for your negligence. Nothing you do or feel the need to do in your car can be worth a life -- be it yours or someone else's. Please drive safely.
The BISNAR|CHASE personal injury law firm is not representing any of the parties mentioned in this article at the time the article was posted. Our information source is cited in the article. If you were involved in this incident or a similar incident and have questions as to your rights and options, call us or another reputable law firm. Do not act solely upon the information provided herein. Get a consultation. The best law firms will provide a free consultation. We provide a free, confidential consultation to not at fault persons named in this article. The free consultation offer extends to family members as well.
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