Distracted driving is one of the most common causes of serious accidents with injuries. Wireless phones are often to blame for causing drivers to take their eyes off the road. A new law is now in effect prohibiting the use of handheld electronic devices. Drivers are not allowed to hold their phone or electronic device while they are behind the wheel. This is a change from the previous law.
Details on the New Law
The new 2017 law bans drivers from holding their electronic devices. Those who want to use a device hands free are allowed to mount it on the windshield. Specifically, the device can be mounted in a 7-inch square on the lower passenger side windshield, or in a 5-inch square in the lower corner of the driver’s side windshield. The other option is to mount the device on the dashboard.
However, when doing so it cannot be placed in such a manner as to obstruct the driver’s view of the road. Also, it cannot interfere with the deployment of the airbags. According to the new law, the driver is allowed to operate the device as long as it can be done with a single finger motion, such as a tap or swipe. Police may write tickets to those who are found to be holding their device while driving.
Efforts to Decrease Distracted Driving
The new law is just one of many initiatives that are being taken to reduce distracted driving. Distracted driving is the cause of thousands of road accident deaths every year. Serious distracted driving accidents often involve young drivers. In fact, 10% of all young drivers, age 15 through 19, are involved in a fatal collision in which distracted driving was a cause. California Highway Patrol (CHP) has paired with Impact Teen Drivers (ITD) to help prevent and eliminate distracted driving.
Raising Awareness of the Impact of Distracted Driving
Vehicle crashes are avoidable. More emphasis is now being put on teaching teen drivers and their parents more about distracted driving. A grant has been given which funds a new campaign called Teen Distracted Drivers Education and Enforcement. The program includes education and enforcement across the state and is slated to run through the end of September, 2017. The program is expected to help save hundreds of lives in California alone.
Accidents Caused by Distracted Driving
Too many accidents are caused by distracted driving. Sadly, many of the injuries associated with these crashes are severe, and some victims suffer lifelong disabilities as a result. Those who are victims of car crashes may be entitled to compensation from the responsible party. Damages typically include medical costs, rehabilitation expenses, money for pain and suffering, lost wages, and others. If a victim is killed in an accident, his family may be able to file a claim.
If you were seriously hurt in a vehicle accident due to the negligent actions of another, you may be able to take legal action. Contact the experienced lawyers at the Law Office of Patrick G. Shea to schedule a free consultation.
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