Tampa Distracted Driving Accident Lawyer
Many car accidents are caused by distracted driving. Distracted driving refers to any activity that diverts your attention away from the task of safe driving. This can refer to many actions, but texting is the most alarming distraction. Sending or reading a text takes your eyes off the road for approximately five seconds, which is like driving the length of a football field while your eyes closed.
Driving is a task that requires your full attention. Any non-driving activity is a potential distraction and can cause you to crash.
Distracted driving is deadly, causing more than 3,000 fatalities every year. Many more are injured. If you or a loved one has been a victim, seek legal help right away to understand your legal rights. A Tampa distracted driving accident lawyer from Franco Law Firm can help you obtain compensation for another motorist’s negligent driving.
Is Distracted Driving Illegal?
The laws on distracted driving vary from state to state. In July 2019, Florida banned texting while driving. What this means is that Florida drivers are banned from using their cell phones to text, email, or perform any other activity that involves physically typing or entering letters, numbers, or symbols into a wireless device. This means that social media and internet searches are also prohibited.
What this means is that a person who is using a cell phone while driving can be pulled over by police. Texting while driving is a primary traffic offense in Florida, with a first offense costing a $30 fine. Multiple offenses can make the fine climb to more than $100.
Florida’s distracted driving law only applies to electronic devices. Engaging in other activities while driving, such as eating or reading, are not considered illegal.
Types of Distracted Driving
There are four types of driver distraction:
- Visual. This involves looking at something other than the road.
- Manual. This means your hands are not on the steering wheel and are manipulating something else, such as a phone or other electronic device.
- Cognitive. This refers to thinking about something other than driving, such as work or family members.
- Auditory. This means listening to something not related to driving, such as the radio or an audiobook.
While texting is one of the biggest offenders, there are other types of distraction while behind the wheel. They include eating, grooming, using a navigation system, changing radio stations, watching a video, looking at a car accident scene, dealing with pets and kids, and talking to passengers,
Contact Franco Law Firm Today
Distracted driving is a major issue. Motorists need to pay attention to the roadway at all times. When they fail to do so, serious accidents can occur.
If you have been a victim of distracted driving, Franco Law Firm can help prove negligence. We’ll show they are liable for your injuries so you get the compensation you deserve. To schedule a free consultation with our Tampa distracted driving accidents lawyer, fill out the online form or call (813) 872-0929.
