Auto Accidents and the Dangers of Cell Phone Use
There are many different hazards that are on the road, such as foreign objects that cause people to suddenly swerve, or poor road conditions that make regular driving very dangerous. Some of these hazards are unexpected, and may be everyday items that people use to do basic tasks throughout the day. The hazard that we're specifically talking about is cell phones. Cell phone use while driving has led to many serious injuries and even fatal accidents. Personal injury attorneys can help the victims of auto accidents and their loved ones hold these distracted drivers accountable for their irresponsibility.
Right now, we'd like to take a moment to consider cell phone use while driving and why this needs to be avoided at all costs.
Driver Distraction of All Kinds Is Dangerous
You know that when you are behind the wheel, it's important that you do not have your attention diverted to other tasks. If this happens, your reaction time is impaired and you run the risk of harming others on the road as well as yourself and your own passengers.
Cell Phone Use Should Be Avoided While Driving
Cell phones are a major distraction when people are behind the wheel. This goes for when people are making calls or if they are using apps while they drive. The latter is especially dangerous. Even if you are just trying to get directions, your are diverting your attention from the road ahead of you as well as your ability to note the other motorists around you.
In 2011, it was estimated that 23% of motor vehicle collisions involved cell phones. That's roughly 1.3 million preventable accidents.
Texting While Driving Is Especially Deadly
Perhaps the most dangerous thing that a driver can do is text while they are behind the wheel. Usually this will cause drivers to look at their screens rather than the road, and also use both hands rather than keeping their hands on the wheel. While dialing a number doubles or triples the risk of an auto accident occurring, some studies suggest that texting while driving makes auto accidents 23 times more likely.
When Motorists Should Use Their Phones
Ideally, motorists should use their cell phones when their car is parked and safely away from any traffic. By waiting to use your phone until you are outside of the flow of traffic, you will prevent any serious injuries from occurring.
How Our Legal Team Can Help You with Your Needs
Because of these number, it's important that you have legal experts on your side. Auto accident attorneys will hold negligent motorists accountable and will make sure that you receive just compensation for injuries and losses sustained. In the case of the death of a loved one due to a driver using a cell phone, we will make sure to hold that person accountable to help you with the grieving and coping process.
Learn More About Personal Injury Lawsuits
For more information about your legal options following an auto accident, be sure to contact our Brooklyn personal injury law firm today. Our legal team looks forward to meeting you in person and helping you make smart decisions about all of your legal options.