Cell Phones, Texting and other Potential distractions that can cause you to get rear ended
Many studies have demonstrated that texting or using a cell phone as you are driving could be even more hazardous than driving drunk, especially in terms of getting rear ended. In fact, quite a few vehicle accidents happen, and 1000s of individuals are hurt or killed every year, due to the fact drivers divert their attention from the road to operate a mobile device.
While some states have approved laws and regulations either prohibiting or restricting such conduct, others have still to act. In answer to this hazard, the U.S. Department of Transportation enacted DOT 14-10 on January 26, 2010, which forbids truck and bus drivers from sending text messages while driving. This federal measure is effective immediately and applies to drivers of interstate buses and commercial transport with a weight of over 10,000 lbs. Violators may be subject to civil and/or criminal fines of up to $2,750.
What to do if rear ended? For more information about efforts by the U.S. DOT to combat driving distractions, go to www.distraction.gov. Even where particular laws outlawing this practice haven’t yet been introduced, motorists can still be held accountable when they negligently cause accidents while they’re texting, talking on mobile devices or are otherwise distracted. As technological innovation advances and cars become loaded with interactive features like GPS, navigation and satellite radio, the risk of getting rear ended and significant injuries will undoubtedly increase.
If you were injured in a car crash due to a driver who was sending text messages, speaking on a cellphone or otherwise preoccupied, you should get in touch with a personal injury attorney for a free initial discussion. Find a lawyer with numerous years of practical experience handling automobile accident cases and will fight hard to get you the compensation you need and deserve.
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