Orlando Auto Accident Lawyers: State and Federal Governments Take Aim at Distracted Driving
America’s state governments are now getting help from the federal government agencies in cracking down on drivers who use cell phones while behind the wheel.
Recent reports indicate federal groups are lending support to a “distracted driving” campaign aimed at limiting the use of cell phones on the road and advertising strict policies about talking or texting while driving in many states.
A February MSNBC report cited 6,000 deaths nationally in 2008 were related to distracted driving accidents. The article also refers to a study result from a Utah University showing that cell phone use can be as impairing to a driver as blood alcohol levels at the legal limit.
In many states, using a cell phone on the road is quickly becoming the second most enforced traffic safety issue, behind DUI/DWI enforcement. Each state has its own unique laws on either talking on a cell phone while driving, or the more dangerous practice of texting messages behind the wheel, where the driver often has to take his or her attention away from the road to monitor the cell phone screen.
Why do state laws differ on cell phone use? A primary reason is that auto insurance law differs in every state. Some states have traditional tort-based auto insurance, while others have comparative fault or no fault systems. Insurance is a main factor in setting the bar for distracted driving, along with accident rates that have the families of injured or killed drivers and passengers advocating tougher cell phone laws.
Although some states have passed progressively stricter cell phone laws, others remain behind the curve on this important legislation to protect individuals and families on the road. In the state of Florida, the prevailing system for auto insurance is confusing to some local residents, and others may not understand current cell phone law within the state. Orlando auto accident lawyer firms can help clients who are injured in auto accidents to evaluate whether cell phone law relates to an injury or fatality. Using specific state law and case precedents, these skilled professionals can provide accurate, dependable care for families who suffered loss or injury because of distracted drivers.
Orlando auto accident lawyer James O. Cunningham has 30 years of experience in helping victims deal with the aftereffects of auto accidents. If you have suffered injuries in an accident related to a distracted driver texting or talking on a cell phone, contact his office. He can answer any questions you have about compensation for injuries or fatalities caused by a distracted driver. You can reach the Law Offices of James O. Cunningham toll free at 888-425-2004 or locally at 407-425-2000.
