Florida joins a national movement to curb accidents caused by distracted driving as the use of handheld devices and other technologies continues to advance.
The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) defines distracted driving as anything that requires taking your hands off the wheel, eyes off the road, or mind off driving. Legislators and government officials have attempted to address growing concerns over distracted driving accidents with the introduction of laws and the threat of fines and penalties for offenders.
There has been a direct correlation between the increase in accidents due to distracted driving and the surge of smartphones and integrated social media apps with fatal crashes involving a distracted driver rising 52% between 2015 and 2021.
In an effort to make roads safer, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis signed into effect The Wireless Communications While Driving Law, section 316.305 Florida Statutes in 2019. The law requires drivers to keep their phones away while operating a motor vehicle making texting while driving a primary offense.
While a $30-$100 traffic violation ticket is an annoyance, consequences quickly mount when distracted driving results in an accident, especially one that causes injury or death. The dangers of texting and driving are mounting and it is up to drivers to maintain safe practices while traveling.
Actions that fall under “Distracted Driving” by Florida law:
- Talking on the phone
- Texting
- Checking apps
- Sending emails
- Eating food
- Changing music station or input
- Using the navigation system
- Applying makeup or grooming
- Conversing with other passengers
Staying alert and off devices while driving is the best way to arrive at your destination safely. If you or a family member is hurt in an accident involving a distracted driver it is important to contact an attorney right away.
Florida car accident lawyer Ted Babbitt has decades of experience representing victims who have been injured in serious car accidents due to distracted driving. He obtained a $3.25 million settlement for the survivor of a 69-year old wife and grandmother who was struck by a distracted driver while she was walking in a crosswalk.
If you or a loved one has been injured or killed by a distracted driver contact Ted today. He will give you an honest assessment of your case and explain your legal options.