Distracted Driving Accidents
Information from a Houston Car Accident Lawyer
Distracted driving causes thousands of fatal accidents each year and is one of the fastest-growing threats to drivers in the United States. Operating a vehicle requires a driver's full attention. Additionally, drivers must use their hands, arms and feet. Distracts impair one or all of these functions. For instance, texting while driving impairs the driver's gross motor skills (hands), visual ability and mental focus. Even still, many drivers attempt to multitask behind the wheel every day.
According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), as many as 33% of American young people attempt to text while driving. Texting while driving alone is responsible for thousands of accidents every year. In 2009, distracted drivers killed more than 5,400 innocent drives. Approximately 1,000 of these deaths was directly associated with cellphone usage. At the Law Office of Sebastian J. Simon, we believe that irresponsible and negligent drivers should be held responsible for their actions. If you've been hurt by a distracted driver, call our firm today. Any type of distraction could merit an accident claim or lawsuit. At our firm, a car accident attorney in Houston can help victims of crashes that were caused by:
- Talking to passengers;
- Talking on the phone;
- Texting while driving;
- Listening to music;
- Eating / drinking;
- Applying makeup; and
- Using a GPS or navigation system
Each of these causes a serious risk to the safety of passengers, as well as any other motorists on the road. However, the most common of these causes at present is the use of a cell phone while driving.
Using Electronic Devices While Driving
Because of the rise in distracted driving accidents due to cell phone usage, many states and cities have adopted laws banning the use of handheld phones while driving. Texas has yet to pass such a law but across Texas, various restrictions apply. For example, generally, a motorist must not use a cell phone in a school zone, and bus drivers are restricted from talking on the phone while transporting minors.
If you have been in an accident caused by a distracted driver, that driver, not you should be held responsible for any damage or injury you have sustained. Be sure to hire a skilled, experienced car accident lawyer. With their knowledge and experience on your side, your chances of success will be much higher than trying to fight your case on your own. For an accident attorney who will fight hard to protect your rights and to obtain full compensation for you, contact the Law Office of Sebastian J. Simon and speak with a member of our legal team.