Cell Phones, Texting and other Distractions that can cause you to get rear ended
Numerous studies have shown that sending text messages or using a cell phone at the same time as you are driving might be even more hazardous than driving drunk, especially in terms of getting rear ended. In fact, quite a few vehicle accidents occur, and thousands of individuals are killed or hurt every year, simply because motorists divert their awareness from the highway to use a cellular device.
Even though some states have approved laws either prohibiting or restricting this kind of conduct, others have still to act. In reaction to this threat, the U.S. Department of Transportation introduced DOT 14-10 on January 26, 2010, which prohibits truck and bus drivers from sending text messages while driving. This government measure is effective right away and is applicable to drivers of interstate buses and trucks weighing over 10,000 lbs. Violators could be subject to civil and/or criminal fines of up to $2,750.
What to do if rear ended? For more information regarding attempts by the U.S. DOT to fight driving distractions, look at www.distraction.gov. Even where specific laws banning this behavior have yet to be passed, drivers can still be held accountable if they negligently cause accidents while they’re text messaging, talking on cellular phones or are otherwise distracted. As technology develops and vehicles become loaded with interactive capabilities like GPS, navigation and satellite radio, the chance of getting rear ended and severe injuries will undoubtedly increase.
If you have been hurt in a car wreck as a result of a motorist who was text messaging, chatting on a cellphone or otherwise preoccupied, it is best to contact a personal injury law firm for a free initial consultation. Find a lawyer with numerous years of experience managing automobile accident cases and will fight hard to get you the compensation you need and deserve.
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