California’s Cell Phone Laws Aim to Reduce Distracted Driving

According to the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT), 20 percent of car accidents that caused injuries in 2009 involved a distracted driver, and 18 percent of fatal car accidents involved at least one driver who was distracted by cell phone use, either by talking or texting. In response to these sobering statistics, many U.S. states, including California, have created laws that limit or ban drivers from using cell phones while driving.

California law prohibits drivers from talking on a cell phone while driving unless the driver uses a hands-free device, such as a headset. Holding the phone in one hand and driving with the other is not allowed, and drivers who are caught doing it face a fine of $20 the first time, and $50 each time after that. Bus drivers and students learning to drive may not use cell phones at all while driving. The law does not apply if the driver is using the phone in an emergency.

In addition, California law prohibits texting while driving. According to the DOT, texting while driving is particularly hazardous because it requires the driver to take their eyes and mind off the road and at least one hand off the steering wheel. This increases the driver’s chance of being unable to respond to road hazards in time and causing a California car accident.

If you have been injured in a car accident that was caused by a distracted driver, please don’t hesitate to contact the experienced San Fernando Valley car accident attorneys at The Mandell Law Firm. We will study the details of your case and fight for the compensation you deserve. For a free case evaluation, call us today at 818-886-6600.