Texting while driving has become a huge issue in today’s society. With the increasing attachment to cell phones, there is now another root cause as to why car accidents happen so often. Despite efforts to raise awareness of distracted driving through news stories, billboards and radio, many people still cannot break the temptation to use their phone while behind the wheel. There may be a deeper reason why it is so difficult to break this habit, even when most drivers understand the risks. Sadly, many drivers may feel they are invincible, and that a tragic car collision could never happen to them. When a person decides to drive carelessly, they are not only putting themselves in danger, but others on the road as well.
Through a question and answer format, we have examined this dangerous habit more closely. If you are ever hit by a distracted driver, always call the police and request medical attention. It is rare for someone to walk away from a car accident without some sort of injury.
What can someone do to help break the habit of texting and driving?
There is one simple approach that can help someone keep from reaching over and grabbing their phone in the middle of a drive. A person can turn off their phone completely, and then leave it locked in their glove box. In this way, a beep or vibration cannot be heard and the driver may not use their phone until the keys have been removed from the engine.
While this sounds simple, is there actually a bigger issue?
Depending on who you ask, some may say there is in fact a much bigger problem when it comes to texting and driving than people realize. In today’s society, we are more addicted to our cell phones more than ever before. So, we are not only tempted to use our phones while driving, but while not driving too. The average person checks their phone about fifty times a day. All this time checking our phones can make it harder to distance ourselves during even the shortest of drives. Someone who truly wants to beat their addiction to cell phone use should gradually lessen the amount of time they check it every day overall, not just while behind the wheel.
Let’s say someone hits me due to texting and driving, should I see a lawyer?
Many people who are involved in car accidents may decide to talk with a lawyer if they suffered injuries and/or financial loss. The bills associated with medical care and vehicle repairs can add up quickly. The driver at-fault should be held responsible for their distracted driving. You may be able to file a civil lawsuit in order to seek compensation for your damages. If you do decide to meet with an auto accident lawyer Canoga Park, CA trusts, you should bring along as many details as you can about the accident, including:
- Receipts of medical costs
- Vehicle repair estimates
- Driver’s information
- Pictures of the scene, injuries or damages
- Doctor evaluations
Thank you to our friends and contributors at Barry P. Goldberg for their insight into car accidents.
