Cell phone use causes Accidents – Lulich & Attorneys
It is no secret that the increase in cell phone use and the evolution of smartphone technology has caused a rise in
car accidents. Often, drivers are distracted by their mobile devices, which leads to them paying far less attention to the road. In a split second, a car collision can occur and lives can be lost.
A 2015 report from the National Safety Council revealed that over 1.5 million car accidents were caused by cell phones in 2013. Not only are cell phones causing accidents and costing billions of dollars in money from taxpayers, but they are ending lives.
Florida Driving and Cell Phones
In the state of Florida, it is legal to speak on a
cell phone while driving. The Florida DMV gives tips on its website on how to stay safe while speaking and driving. Although the state does allow drivers to talk on their cell phones, texting while driving has been outlawed. Unfortunately, it is not easy to catch drivers in the act of texting while driving, so this law has been a challenge for officials to enforce.
Negligence Due to Cell Phones
If you are in a car accident and it was the other driver’s fault, you must prove negligence on the other driver’s part. Florida is a no-fault state when it comes to auto accidents, but if your medical bills exceed $10,000, you may be able to file a lawsuit for compensation from the other driver.
Proving that the driver that caused the accident was using their cell phone before or during the collision can win you the case. Careless driving can often result from drivers using their cell phones. Even taking your eyes off the road for a split second can cause a deadly accident.
According to a recent report, Florida ranks second in the United States for housing the worst drivers. The report is based on accidents caused by Floridians and their addiction to cell phones and texting while driving.
Is the Driver Solely Responsible?
In a twist in recent years, teenagers who have caused car accidents while using cell phones have had their parents held responsible for their actions. Due to the parents buying the device for the child, they are seen as the ones truly responsible for the accident. Parents should remind their children that using a cell phone while driving is extremely dangerous every time they get behind the wheel.
The rise in Car Insurance
If you happen to receive a ticket for texting while driving, your auto insurance company will most likely raise your premium. If you have an accident while using a cell phone, the price you pay for insurance will certainly increase. It is important to remember that if you have a device in your vehicle that takes your eyes off the road, you could be endangering your life and the lives of other drivers.
Lulich Attorneys & Consultants
If you or a loved one have been injured in a
car accident, Lulich Attorneys & Consultants can help. Visit our page on car accidents to see how we can help you. Lulich Attorneys & Consultants can help you with all your personal injury law needs. Contact us today.
