Cell Phones, Texting and other Potential distractions that can cause you to get rear ended
Several studies have demonstrated that sending text messages or using a cellphone at the same time as you are driving a car could be even more hazardous than driving drunk, especially in terms of getting rear ended. In fact, a lot of vehicle accidents occur, and 1000s of individuals are hurt or killed each and every year, due to the fact motorists move their awareness from the highway to use a cellular device.
Even though some states have passed laws either prohibiting or limiting such conduct, others have yet to act. In reaction to this hazard, the U.S. Department of Transportation introduced DOT 14-10 on January 26, 2010, which forbids truck and bus drivers from texting while driving. This government measure is effective immediately and applies to drivers of interstate buses and trucks with a weight of over 10,000 lbs. Violators may be subject to civil and/or criminal fees and penalties of up to $2,750.
What to do if rear ended? To find out more regarding efforts by the U.S. DOT to combat driving distractions, look at www.distraction.gov. Even where particular laws banning this behavior haven’t yet been passed, individuals can nevertheless be held accountable if they negligently cause accidents while they’re texting, talking on cellular phones or are otherwise distracted. As technological innovation develops and automobiles become equipped with interactive capabilities like GPS, navigation and satellite radio, the risk of getting rear ended and severe injuries will undoubtedly increase.
If you’ve been hurt in a car wreck caused by a car owner who was sending text messages, talking on a cellular phone or otherwise distracted, it is best to contact an accident law firm for a free initial consultation. Choose a lawyer with numerous years of practical experience handling car accident cases and will fight hard to get you the compensation you need and deserve.
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