Cell Phones, Texting and other Distractions that can cause you to get rear ended
Several reports have proven that texting or using a cellular phone as you are driving might be even more hazardous than driving drunk, especially in terms of getting rear ended. In fact, many auto accidents happen, and 1000s of people are injured or killed each year, because motorists divert their attention from the road to use a mobile device.
While some states have approved laws either prohibiting or limiting such conduct, others have still to act. In reaction to this hazard, the U.S. Department of Transportation passed DOT 14-10 on January 26, 2010, which forbids truck and bus drivers from texting while driving. This federal measure is effective immediately and applies to drivers of interstate buses and trucks weighing over 10,000 pounds. Violators can be subject to civil and/or criminal penalties of up to $2,750.
What to do if rear ended? To learn more about attempts by the U.S. DOT to fight driving distractions, go to www.distraction.gov. Even where specific laws and regulations outlawing this behavior have yet to be introduced, drivers can nevertheless be held responsible when they negligently cause accidents when they’re text messaging, speaking on cellular phones or are otherwise distracted. As technology develops and vehicles become equipped with interactive capabilities like GPS, navigation and satellite radio, the risk of getting rear ended and significant injuries will undoubtedly increase.
If perhaps you were injured in a car wreck caused by a driver who was texting, talking on a cellular phone or otherwise distracted, you ought to speak to a personal injury attorney for a free preliminary discussion. See a law firm with years of practical experience dealing with automobile accident cases and will fight hard to get you the compensation you need and deserve.
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