ANY FORM OF DISTRACTED DRIVING CAN CAUSE ACCIDENTS

Ask any group of random people about distracted driving and the chances are that at least a few of them will mention cellphones. While it’s true that the use of cellphones to talk or text while driving is dangerous, it’s also important to remember that distracted driving comes in many other forms. Basically, anything that draws a driver’s attention away from operating one’s vehicle could potentially become a source of distraction.

This is important because according to a 2011 National Highway Traffic Safety Administration report, distracted driving played a role in over 387,000 vehicle accidents involving injury. Even worse, that agency claims that distracted driving was a factor in the deaths of over 3,000 motorists that same year.

Besides cellphones, the use of other electronic devices such as GPS navigational systems, tablets and now smart watches are all examples of things that could potentially steal focus away from drivers. Additionally, drivers reaching for objects under their seats or in other areas of the car are potential hazards. Applying makeup, dealing with an excited pet or fastening children in car seats are some other avoidable forms of distraction.

Pennsylvania law allows injured motorists to seek recovery for their injuries from drivers who cause those preventable accidents. The fact of the matter is that even a relatively minor fender bender can result in victims requiring medical treatment. Those accidents might even cause them to lose time from work. An attorney with experience in Pennsylvania’s personal injury laws can assist those injured victims in seeking fair compensation.

For over 25 years our law firm has represented clients throughout Pennsylvania and New Jersey in personal injury claims. Prospective clients should know that we will help them to identify any negligence, including distracted driving, which may affect the outcome of their cases. We also provide language support services for our Spanish-speaking clients.