Mobile Phones Contributing to More Auto Accidents
Mobile Phones Behind the Wheel – An Evolving Danger
Anyone who has ever been behind the wheel of an automobile will eventually come across an auto accident. A majority of the time, these are the result of not paying close attention to the road. With the advent of mobile phones with texting and email capabilities, the dangers of “distracted driving” are more apparent than ever. The combination of driving and constant communication has created a recipe for disaster.
In 2010 alone, about 1.6 million traffic accidents in the U.S. were caused by the use of mobile phones while driving. That figure represents more than 28 percent of all traffic accidents. While the culprit used to be talking on mobile phones, now the problem has evolved into texting, sending and receiving emails, photos, and browsing the internet while behind the wheel.
Need to Text? Pull Over.
Now, technology allows us to remain in constant touch with others. While this is intended to be a matter of convenience, it can quickly place others in a danger. Consider the fact that in 2009, the number of text messages sent totaled 1.5 trillion. By 2010, that number had increased by four-fold, to 6.1 trillion. With more and more individuals getting mobile phones with text and email capability, that number will continue to climb rapidly.
Cases involving texting and mobile phone calls are easy to prosecute. Any personal injury lawyer will tell you that if you cause a car crash because you were using a mobile phone while driving, you will not be able to place the blame on anyone else. Mobile phone records are easy to obtain and provide clear proof of guilt. Even using one of the widely accepted hands-free devices is more dangerous than generally believed. The setup might be labeled as hands-free, but it still requires diverting your attention from the road. All it takes is a second to change your life, or someone else’s life, forever.
A Bigger Risk Than Alcohol
Think texting is harmless? Research has proven that texting while driving has an even more dramatic effect on reaction time than alcohol. This means, if you have one person drinking and driving and another texting and driving, the person texting is more likely to become involved in an accident. While increased enforcement has had a significant effect on the number of alcohol related accidents, mobile phone and texting related collisions have proved a more elusive target. As a result, the number of accidents caused under these conditions is increasing at an alarming rate.
If you’re one of these unfortunate statistics, and have been injured by someone who was talking or texting while driving, then you should consult a personal injury attorney for advice. Don’t settle with an insurance company on your own without seeking a professional legal opinion on your case. Chances are you’ll only receive a fraction of what you’re entitled to.
Texting or talking on a mobile phone while operating an automobile is dangerous. The good news is that it’s becoming illegal in more and more states. No matter how careful one is, sooner or later, their luck will run out. Don’t let another’s negligence cost you for the rest of your life. A personal injury law firm can seek the compensation you deserve to get your life back so that you, and your family, don’t have to suffer needlessly.
Call Us for a Free Consultation
The Mandell Law Firm, in Northridge, is an aggressive personal injury and wrongful death law firm serving clients throughout the San Fernando Valley, the Greater Los Angeles area, and Southern California. Experienced and reputable, our attorneys provide hands-on care and sincere commitment to victims of accidents. Contact Laurence Mandell for a free consultation at 818.866.6600.
