Cell Phones, Texting and other Distractions that can cause you to get rear ended
Numerous studies have demonstrated that text messaging or using a cell phone while driving a car could be even more hazardous than driving drunk, especially in terms of getting rear ended. In fact, a lot of auto wrecks happen, and 1000s of individuals are injured or killed each year, due to the fact drivers move their awareness from the highway to use a mobile device.
While some states have passed laws and regulations either prohibiting or limiting this kind of conduct, others have yet to act. In answer to this hazard, the U.S. Department of Transportation passed DOT 14-10 on January 26, 2010, which forbids truck and bus drivers from sending text messages while driving. This government measure is effective immediately and is applicable to drivers of interstate buses and commercial transport with a weight of more than 10,000 lbs. Violators may be subject to civil and/or criminal penalties as high as $2,750.
What to do if rear ended? To find out more concerning efforts by the U.S. DOT to fight driving distractions, look at www.distraction.gov. Even where particular laws and regulations outlawing this practice have yet to be enacted, drivers may still be held responsible if they negligently cause accidents when they are texting, talking on mobile devices or are otherwise distracted. As technology advances and vehicles become outfitted with interactive capabilities like GPS, navigation and satellite radio, the risk of getting rear ended and severe injuries will undoubtedly increase.
If you have been injured in a car wreck because of a driver who was text messaging, talking on a cellphone or otherwise preoccupied, you should get in touch with a personal injury attorney for a free initial discussion. Get an attorney with years of experience handling car accident cases and will fight hard to get you the compensation you need and deserve.
Comments on this entry are closed.