The evidence is clear. Texting while driving is just as dangerous (if not more) than driving while under the influence of alcohol. In today’s modernized society, it is one of the most prevalent forms of distracted driving. When a driver makes the decision to read a text or reply to one while driving, they are putting themselves, their passengers, pedestrians, and other drivers in danger of being severely injured or killed. Unfortunately, many people still ignore this information and would rather read and/or send a text while driving instead of simply pulling over or waiting to respond. Remember, no text is more important than the life and wellbeing of yourself or others. If you have been injured as a result of a driver that is texting while operating a motor vehicle, they should be held fully responsible for the harm that they have caused. At Injury Trial Lawyers, we are prepared to represent you and work diligently to ensure that you are fully compensated for your injuries. Give our San Diego texting and driving accident attorney a call to schedule your free consultation today.
Is it Illegal to Text and Drive in California?
In short, yes. California Vehicle Code, Section 23123 offers clear instructions regarding the usage of a cellphone while driving. Exemptions to the rules only exist during emergency situations. Listed below is a brief summary of the texting and driving laws in California. Refer to the California Vehicle Code for further clarification.
- The use of a mobile phone is not allowed on public roads in California. This includes making calls, reading or typing text messages.
- Motorists are allowed to use cellphones if they have a hands-free system installed in their car and on their phones.
- Drivers that are under the age of 18 cannot use cell phones at all. Even if they do have hands-free capabilities
Violations of the texting and driving rules can result in fines ranging from $20 to $150 dollars. It should be noted that Bluetooth headsets typically cost less than one citation. Furthermore, most phones and modern vehicles are already equipped for “hands-free mode.” It only takes a few minutes to set it up.
Texting and Driving Accident Statistics
For some, texting and driving may seem like an innocent mistake that only affects less experienced drivers. That could not be further from the truth. Listed below are some pertinent statistics surrounding texting and driving accidents:
- Texting while driving is six times more likely to result in an auto accident than drunk driving.
- Women text and drive more than men.
- 9% of all fatal crashes can be attributed to texting while driving by one or more of the drivers.
- Drivers using a cellphone while driving cause more than 1.5 million accidents each year
- Approximately 40% of teen drivers admit to using a cellphone while driving
Other Forms of Distracted Driving
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there are three types of distracted driving: visual, manual, and cognitive. Visual distraction involves taking your eyes off the road. Manual distraction includes anything that takes your hands off of the steering wheel. Cognitive distraction happens when a driver takes their mind off of the road. Distracted driving encompasses eating, daydreaming, reaching for something, etc. Texting while driving can actually include all three forms of distraction at once; you take your hands off the wheel (manual), look at the screen (visual), and think of a response (cognitive).
When to Work With a Personal Injury Attorney
As you can see, texting while driving can have major implications for yourself and other drivers on the road (up to fatalities). If you have suffered injuries as a result of a distracted driver texting and driving, you deserve to be compensated. Ensure that you immediately seek medical attention and connect with our car accident attorney as soon as you can. The San Diego texting and driving accident attorney at Injury Trial Lawyers have years of experience with helping our clients to successfully pursue personal injury claims. Give us a call to schedule a free initial consultation today.