In California, it is prohibited for all drivers to use hand-held cell phones while driving. Yet, we still see many drivers answer phone calls, text, even search the internet while driving. A recent study by the Virginia Tech Transportation Institute found the chances of crashing increased “12 fold for those who dial a phone number while driving.” And drivers who sent text messages were 6 times more at risk of being in an accident. (Source)
In spite of these numbers, cell phone use while driving increased by 9.2% just in the past year. The California Highway Patrol collected data showing a pattern between distracted driving behaviors and the number of driver’s killed or injured in accidents. Those numbers rose by almost 1,000 lives between the years 2013 and 2015.
Drivers who are caught using a cell phone or other electronic device while driving face fines of at least $150 dollars.
Some other distracted driving activities include:
- Cognitive activities – taking your mind off of the act of driving.
- Visual activities – taking your eyes off the road.
- Manual activities – removing your hands off the wheel. For example, eating while driving.
Despite the fact that any of these distractions can endanger the lives of the driver and others on the road, texting while driving remains the number 1 distraction because it combines all three activities. The best course of action is to put down your cell phone and wait till you’ve reached your destination, or pull over to the side of the road if need to.
The Law Offices of Larry H. Parker is an advocate for safe driving habits. We know not all accidents are avoidable unfortunately. If you or a loved one has been hurt in a car accident, call The Law Offices of Larry H. Parker today. Our experienced auto accident team will fight to secure the compensation you deserve. Contact us online by submitting a case evaluation form and receive 10% off fees, or call (800) 333-0000 to schedule a free consultation. If we don’t get you any money, we won’t charge you a dime. The Law Offices of Larry H. Parker has offices in Long Beach, Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, Bakersfield, and Fresno, California and in Phoenix and Tucson, Arizona. We’ll fight for you!®
