Auto Accidents Caused by Cell Phone Use
As technology continues to progress at a seemingly exponential rate, one would think that all facets of life would be made safer. Sadly, this is not always the case. When it comes to driving, the increasing distractions of modern-day technology only contribute to auto accidents and injuries. Furthermore, laws attempting to curb cell phone use while driving seem to be largely ineffective.
Other than driving safely and defensively, there is little you can do to protect yourself from the dangerous habits of other drivers. Still, that is no reason to suffer financially from another driver’s negligence. If you are injured in a car accident due to reckless cell phone use, our Daytona Beach attorneys are ready to help you gain the compensation you deserve.
Cell Phone Use and Accidents
According to studies conducted by Harvard University, people who use their cell phones while driving are 400 percent more likely to be involved in a car accident than other drivers. This is underscored by the fact that cell phones play a negative role in nearly 25 percent of all auto accidents in America. By 2002, these accidents averaged 2,600 deaths per year and 330,000 serious injuries.
Interestingly, drivers seem to understand the risks of using a phone while driving, and yet they continue to do it. In a survey, 84 percent of people stated that they believe using a cell phone while driving increases the odds of a car crash, and yet 81 percent admitted they still do it anyway. Worse yet, the prevalence of cell phone use while driving is often cited as highest among teenage drivers, who are already more likely to become involved in accidents due to inexperience.
The Dangers of Distracted Driving
Anyone who boasts a special ability to drive well while using a cell phone is either lying or kidding themselves. Even experienced drivers who are typically good “multi-taskers” still put themselves and others at risk when they purposely distract themselves behind the wheel. On average:
- Cell phone use decreases reaction time (e.g., braking) by 18 percent.
- Cell phone use decreases brain functions associated with driving by 37 percent.
- Hands-free sets barely increase the safety of cell phone use; when voice-activated commands are utilized, hands-free systems may be even more distracting.
- Texting while driving makes an accident 23 times more likely to occur.
- Each text draws a driver’s attention away from the road for nearly five second.
- While texting, a driver spends one out of every 10 seconds in the wrong lane.
As noted, texting accounts for some of the most dangerous driving habits. According to a study by AAA Foundation, 18 percent of drivers regularly text while driving, and nearly half of all drivers under the age of 18 admit to having done so. Moreover, most studies concerning vehicular cell phone use are believed to be under-representative, with actual statistics in fact being higher.
Gaining Compensation for Injuries
If you have been injured due to a distracted driver, do not hesitate to seek compensatory damages. By contacting our firm, you can gain expert advice and representation toward your personal injury lawsuit. Our attorneys will also waste no time in collecting evidence to prove the other driver’s negligence. With a successful suit, you can gain compensation for medical bills, ongoing medical care, vehicular damage, any additional property damage, pain and suffering, and missed wages from work. In cases where a driver was clearly violating a law pertaining to cell phone use on the road, he or she may also be deemed as having performed “gross negligence,” in which case additional punitive damages may be awarded for particularly dangerous circumstances.
Speak with a Personal Injury Attorney Today
There is no excuse for reckless cell phone use while driving, especially in areas where other drivers and pedestrians are present. Contact our office to speak with an attorney as soon as you have been involved in such an accident, and we will begin building a case for your financial compensation.