How Distracted Driving Can Lead to Car Accidents and Injuries

 Posted on July 01, 2021 in Car Accidents

There are many forms of negligence by drivers that can cause car accidents. Among these, distracted driving is one of the most common. Even though there are laws prohibiting drivers from using electronic devices or engaging in other activities that distract them from the act of driving, many people disregard these laws out of the belief that they can drive safely while multitasking. Drivers in California will want to understand the specific laws that address distracted driving. Those who have been injured in a motor vehicle collision will need to work with an attorney to determine how they can hold a negligent driver responsible for their damages.

California Laws Regarding Electronic Devices

Drivers in California are prohibited from using handheld cell phones or other electronic devices while they are in control of a vehicle. However, drivers are allowed to use a device in hands-free mode, including having phone conversations through their car’s speakers or Bluetooth devices or using voice-activated commands. Drivers who are under the age of 18 are prohibited from using electronic devices in any way while behind the wheel.

Typically, drivers who violate the law by making calls while holding a cell phone, texting while driving, manually dialing a phone, looking up information, browsing the internet, or otherwise operating an electronic device may be charged with traffic violations, which will usually result in a fine. However, as of July 1, 2021, violations involving electronic devices will also add points to a driver’s record, and multiple traffic violations could lead to the suspension of a driver’s license.

Dangers of Distracted Driving

Distractions that affect drivers come in three forms:

• Visual distractions - These involve anything that causes a driver to take their eyes away from the road, which may cause them to fail to notice important details, such as another vehicle that has slowed down or changed lanes.
• Manual distractions - These involve a driver taking their hands off the wheel and picking up, holding, or manipulating other objects. This will make it more difficult for a driver to act quickly to avoid a collision.
• Cognitive distractions - These involve any actions that take a driver’s attention away from driving, which will limit their ability to notice and respond to what is happening on the road around them.

Some activities only involve one type of distraction, but using cell phones or electronic devices involves all three types of distractions, which is why doing so while driving is extremely dangerous. 

Contact Our Los Angeles Distracted Driving Accident Attorneys

Following a car accident, the attorneys of Tahmazian Law Firm, P.C. can perform an investigation and gather evidence to show that distracted driving or other forms of driver negligence were the cause of a victim’s injuries. We will work to ensure that a negligent driver is held liable for the injuries and damages they have caused. Contact our Glendale car accident lawyers at 818-242-8201 to schedule a free consultation.

Sources:

https://www.ots.ca.gov/media-and-research/campaigns/distracted-driving-april/

https://www.nsc.org/road/safety-topics/distracted-driving/distracted-driving-home

https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billTextClient.xhtml?bill_id=201920200AB47