Everyone knows instinctively that distracted driving is dangerous. Yet thousands of drivers across the country will engage in some form of distraction every hour. Indeed, most people who choose to distract themselves while driving do so by picking up their smartphones, which the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has determined is likely the most hazardous distraction of them all.
According to CDC research, there are three types of driver distraction:
Cellphone use behind the wheel is so incredibly dangerous because it engages all three forms of driver distraction at once. The simple act of checking or sending a text message puts the driver, any passengers, and all other motorists on the road in serious danger of a crash. The NSC also warns that hands-free devices do not help reduce driver distraction, so you should think twice before trying to send a text via Bluetooth or another wireless device in your car.
Florida has made it strictly illegal to send a text message while driving, but this does not stop the majority of drivers from doing so. The illegality of the action also does not necessarily increase your chances of winning compensation from the liable party after being in a distracted driving accident. The best way to improve your odds of filing a successful claim is teaming up with a trustworthy and experienced car accident lawyer.
The Pittman Firm, P.A. is led by Florida personal injury Attorney Wes Pittman, who has more than three decades’ worth of legal experience focused on helping the wrongfully injured. If you have been blindsided by a distracted driver and need compensation beyond what your personal insurance protection (PIP) insurance will pay you, then it is time to contact his firm. You can call (850) 764-0383 to request a free initial consultation.