Cell Phones, Texting and other Potential distractions that can cause you to get rear ended
Many tests have demonstrated that sending text messages or using a cell phone at the same time as you are driving might be even more dangerous than driving drunk, especially in terms of getting rear ended. In fact, many auto wrecks occur, and 1000s of individuals are killed or injured each and every year, simply because motorists move their attention from the road to use a mobile device.
Although some states have passed laws and regulations either prohibiting or limiting this kind of conduct, others have yet to act. In answer to this real danger, the U.S. Department of Transportation introduced DOT 14-10 on January 26, 2010, which prohibits truck and bus drivers from texting while driving. This federal measure is effective right away and is applicable to drivers of interstate buses and commercial transport weighing more than 10,000 lbs. Violators can be subject to civil and/or criminal fines as high as $2,750.
What to do if rear ended? To learn more regarding initiatives by the U.S. DOT to fight driving distractions, visit www.distraction.gov. Even where particular laws banning this behavior have yet to be enacted, motorists may nevertheless be held responsible if they negligently cause accidents when they are texting, talking on cellular phones or are otherwise distracted. As technology progresses and cars become loaded with interactive features like GPS, navigation and satellite radio, the chance of getting rear ended and serious injuries will undoubtedly increase.
If you were injured in a car crash because of a car owner who was text messaging, speaking on a cellular phone or otherwise preoccupied, you ought to get in touch with an accidental injury attorney for a free preliminary discussion. Look for a law firm with years of experience dealing with car accident cases and will fight hard to recover the compensation you need and deserve.
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