Cell phones and other electronic devices have revolutionized communication, leaving many of us to eagerly await the unveiling of the latest technological gadget. While smartphones and tablets provide countless conveniences and myriad ways to network, they can leave us distracted from the real time events happening around us. Accidents involving distracted driving continue to wreak havoc on America’s roadways, resulting in thousands of deaths and almost half a million injuries each year. As difficult as it can be to unplug ourselves, giving the road your full attention while driving can help save the lives of yourself and those you love.
Accidents Caused by Distracted Driving
Jump Ahead To
At any given moment, over 650,000 drivers are using cell phones or electronic devices while behind the wheel. As a direct result of this type of behavior, there are over 3,150 people killed each year on America’s roadways, and another 424,000 people who are injured. To raise awareness and help reduce these grim statistics, the United States Department of Transportation and the National Highway Safety Administration have joined forces in an effort to combat distracted driving through the government website Distraction.gov. For today’s drivers, distracted driving takes many forms. Activities that result in distracted driving include:
- Audio devices, such as car radios, CD and MP3 players;
- Video players;
- Car navigation and GPS systems;
- Eating or drinking;
- Talking to children or passengers; and
- Personal grooming, such as putting on makeup between red lights.
All of these things take our eyes off the road and draw our attention away from other drivers, but no doubt cellphones and texting are the worst offenders. Texting in particular requires visual, cognitive, and manual skills, and results in the greatest overall distraction behind the wheel.
Law Against Distracted Driving
In the effort to reduce injuries and fatalities due to distracted driving, public service campaigns have been helpful, but have not completely addressed the problem. While many people know it is dangerous to text or use cell phones while driving, they continue to do it. To further reduce distracted driving, many states have introduced laws prohibiting distracted driving. According to the Governor’s Highway Safety Association, 46 states plus the District of Columbia have laws banning texting while driving . Another 14 states carry distracted driving laws a step further, and have banned the use of handheld cellphones while driving. While South Carolina is one of the states with a ban on texting, drivers who do text behind the wheel face a slap on the wrist. The fine for texting while driving is only $25, and the violation is not recorded in the DMV or SLED records. As of yet, the Palmetto State currently has no law in place preventing drivers from using cellphones while driving.
Contact an Experienced Personal Injury Attorney Today
If you or a loved one has been involved in an car accident or suffered an injury as the result of someone’s negligent behavior, contact a skilled South Carolina personal injury attorney right away. At the office Lauren Taylor, we provide the aggressive legal representation you need to get the maximum amount of compensation for your injuries. Don’t delay. Serving all of Upstate South Carolina, our dedicated, efficient staff will help you to get the compensation you deserve.
South Carolina divorce attorney Lauren Taylor practices family law in Charleston and Greenville. She graduated from the Charlotte School of Law, and has been practicing for more than ten years.
Since the firm’s inception in 2012, Mrs. Taylor has helped hundreds of people navigate the uncertainties surrounding the family and criminal court process.
She has cultivated a team that ensures each case has a strategy crafted specifically to the clients needs and desires.
Her commitment to top notch service has led her to open two additional offices in the low country where she now resides with her husband Michael and her golden retriever, Buster.