Smart Phones Are the Cause of 1 in 4 Car Accidents
It is not news to say that distracted drivers are the number one cause of car accidents across the nation, nor is it news to say that smart phones and other cellular devices are the number one cause of distractions. However, no matter how much we know about the dangers of cellphone use while driving, people of all ages continue to text and drive, talk and drive, or even browse and drive. Surprisingly, and contrary to popular belief, texting and driving is not the primary cause of distracted driving; according to one source, it only accounts for five percent of distracted driving accidents. Talking on handheld and hands-free devices is actually the number one cause of distracted driving accidents.
Florida Law Concerning Cellphone Use While Driving
Unlike other states, Florida does not have a law prohibiting texting while driving or talking while driving. However, that does not mean that doing either is safe. According to the National Safety Council’s injury and fatality report, cellphone use is responsible for one in four accidents across the nation. At Spencer Morgan Law, our Miami car accident attorneys encourage you to practice safe driving at all times, and not just for your own safety but for the safety of others as well.
Furthermore, if you cause an accident because you were distracted for texting and driving, you could very well be held liable for the accident and any damages that it caused. Damages include but are not limited to medical expenses, property damage, lost wages, and pain and suffering. If you do not have car insurance, you may be forced to pay for these damages out of pocket. Even if you do have insurance, you may still be forced to pay for losses outside of property related damages.
Tips for Practicing Safe Driving
Do not take any chances when driving. The Florida DMV has put together a list of tips for you to utilize when behind the wheel. Those include:
- Make Driving Your First Priority. If using your cell phone in any way is going to distract you, do not use it while driving. If someone wants to talk to you while you are on the road, let them leave a message. There is nothing so urgent that it is worth risking your life or the life of others to answer the phone.
- Keep Your Eyes on the Road. If you plan on making a phone call, are expecting a phone call, or anticipate needing your phone at any point throughout your drive, make preparations ahead of time. Have your phone somewhere where it is easily accessible. Have the phone number you plan on calling saved to speed dial. And, if possible, hook your phone up to your car’s Bluetooth so that your vehicle can answer the call for you.
- Limit Conversation. There is plenty of time for chit-chat when you are at home, but when you are on the road, keep conversation limited to the necessities.
- Use Common Sense. Know when it is safe to use your cellphone and when it is not. For instance, if you are on a deserted back road on a clear summer day, go ahead and answer that phone call. However, if you are in the midst of a rainstorm and cannot see even two feet in front of you, keep your eyes on the road, hands on the wheel, and the cellphone away.
Work With a Knowledgeable Miami Car Accident Lawyer
Cellphones are such a normal part of our lives these days that it is not uncommon to see individuals speeding down the interstate with a phone plastered to their ears, or to see someone changing lanes while texting. However, these types of behavior are precisely what cause accidents, and are exactly what could end up costing otherwise good people thousands of dollars in damages.
If you were injured in a car accident that was caused by a distracted driver, our Miami car accident lawyers understand that you may be feeling frustrated and worried about how you are going to pay for the damages caused to you. Let the legal associates at Spencer Morgan Law do the worrying, while you focus on recovering. With our experience and knowledge of Florida law on your side, you can obtain the compensation you need to recover in comfort. Call 305-423-3800 to schedule your free consultation today.
Resource:
usatoday.com/story/money/cars/2014/03/28/cellphone-use-1-in-4-car-crashes/7018505/