Why Should I Call A Lawyer If The Person Who Hit Me Was On Their Phone?
Why Should I Call A Lawyer If The Person Who Hit Me Was On Their Phone
Road accidents are primarily caused by distracted driving on a global scale. Driving while texting, eating or fiddling with the radio increases the risk of missing important cues, misjudging distances or responding slowly to potential hazards. Distractions when driving must be avoided in order to lower the chance of collisions and maintain everyone’s safety on the road.
Because it decreases a driver’s focus on the road and hinders their ability to make decisions, distracted driving is risky. Drivers, passengers, and other road users are more likely to be injured or killed in accidents because the human brain is not built to multitask while driving at the same time. An avoidable accident that results in physical harm, traumatic brain injury or death might be brought on by getting distracted, even if it’s only a brief moment. Many states have laws against distracted driving, and these often lead to fines, license suspensions or even jail time.
Cell phone use while driving has been a significant contributor to distracted driving accidents in Virginia. According to the Virginia DMV in 2020, there were 18,808 distracted driving crashes reported in the state. Distracted driving, particularly due to cell phone use, made up 3,523 of those crashes. Additionally, the use of a cell phone while driving contributed to 42 fatalities in Virginia in 2020. Distracted driving incidents cost the state’s economy more than $1 billion annually.
What Are Some Of Virginia’s Anti-Distracted Driving Campaigns
Last January 2021, Virginia’s Hands-Free Law came into force, making it illegal for drivers to use a handheld mobile device while driving for any reason other than an emergency.
Since 2021, Virginia has kept up its fight against distracted driving through a variety of campaigns and activities. Campaigns like “Phone Down. It’s the Law.” and “Arrive Alive Virginia” are continuous initiatives to encourage safe driving habits and lessen the frequency of distracted driving incidents.
Regarding the risks of texting and driving, Virginia has come a long way. Even while distracted driving is still a severe problem, the state’s legislation and campaigns against using a cell phone while driving are essential in making the roads safer. Virginia sends a clear message that distracted driving is dangerous for everyone on the road by imposing stiff fines for those found texting or using their phone while driving.
How To Prevent Cell Phone Distractions While Driving
The use of a phone while driving cannot be safely avoided. The only risk-free choice is to never use your phone while operating a vehicle. Pull over to a secure spot, such as a rest area or parking lot, before using your phone if you have to use it for whatever reason. Here are some suggestions for avoiding distractions while driving.
- Minimize Distractions. It’s crucial to maintain concentration while driving. As a result, you should refrain from using your phone while driving. Put your phone away fully if you can.
- Activate Do Not Disturb or Airplane Mode. By limiting phone use while driving, these features lessen the incentive to use a phone. Before you set off on your journey, make sure these settings are turned on.
- Use Wireless Earpieces. Using a hands-free phone while driving can help limit distractions. For phone calls or text messages, consider using a wireless earpiece.
- Enable Automated Reply. Use your phone’s automated reply feature and turn it on while you’re driving. Anyone contacting you while you’re on the road will receive a pre-written message thanks to this function.
- Mount Phone Near Eye Level. Mount your phone at eye level if you have use GPS to avoid being distracted. This will guarantee that you can continue to pay attention to the road ahead while getting driving instructions.
Keep in mind that while these technologies might help you stay safe, your best line of defense against driving distractions is your own judgment. So, when you’re driving, always put the road first.
Act Quickly: In Virginia, Personal Injury Lawsuits Must Be Filed Within Two Years
If you or a loved one has been severely injured, don’t delay – call (800) 529-0804 right now for a free consultation with an expert car accident lawyer. When dealing with a stressful situation, you need a knowledgeable personal injury team to guide you through the recovery process. Contact Tatum & Atkinson, PLLC right away! There is no obligation, and it will not cost you anything to learn about your legal possibilities for pursuing compensation.
CALL THE HEAVY HITTERS AT 1-800-LAW-0804 TODAY!
