The Problem of Distracted Driving

 Posted on June 17, 2014 in Personal Injury

A car accident can be caused by any number of factors. In some cases, causes of accidents are out of the driver's control. In other cases, drivers have control over the circumstances that may lead or have led to a crash occurring. Distracted driving is such a situation where all drivers have control over choosing to give their full attention to operating the vehicle and not partaking in any other activity that could take their attention from the roadway.

What is Distracted Driving?

Distracted driving occurs when a driver operates a vehicle in addition to performing another activity that distracts from the main task of driving. There are numerous factors that could take a driver's attention from the road, and therefore many activities can fall under the larger category of distracted driving. In fact, many states, including Illinois, have enacted laws to prevent drivers from taking part in some of the more common forms of distracted driving. Illinois' new law banning hand-held cellphone use while driving, which went into effect this year, is one example of such a law.

Cellphone use, including texting, is a popular and common form of distracted driving. Some other common forms of distracted driving include:

• Personal grooming while driving;

• Applying makeup while driving;

• Eating while driving;

• Tending to another passenger or pet while driving;

• Reading or writing while driving; and

• Using any handheld electronic device.

Consequences of Distracted Driving

Those drivers who choose to participate in distracted driving despite the obvious and known risks may face serious consequences for doing so. The ramifications for distracted driving can include criminal as well as civil penalties. Distracted drivers who violate a traffic law may receive a citation or traffic ticket. If the driver's distracted driving causes an accident, he or she may face criminal charges in addition to potential lawsuits, depending on the severity of the accident and the circumstances that caused it.

Accidents that occur due to negligence and that cause serious and significant injuries are more likely to result in a lawsuit, while accidents that involve extreme recklessness or illegal conduct may support the filing of criminal charges against the driver.

Of course, drivers who face one set of legal consequences are not necessarily precluded from facing another. Drivers involved in serious accidents routinely face criminal charges as well as civil lawsuits. those who choose to participate in distracted driving are taking a huge risk in doing so.

Accident Injury Attorney

Depending on the circumstances, distracted driving could serve as the basis for negligent or reckless conduct in a lawsuit for damages if someone was injured or killed in a resulting crash. If you or someone you know has been hurt in an accident involving distracted driving, an experienced personal injury attorney can listen to facts of your case and advise you of your rights. Contact Mevorah & Giglio Law Offices today to schedule a consultation. We serve clients in DuPage County and the surrounding area.