Coral Springs Texting & Driving Accident Lawyer
Distracted driving is a major threat on our roads and highways, and there is no greater source of distraction than texting. Americans live on their phones. Unfortunately, reading a text or typing one out while behind the wheel of a moving vehicle is a serious blunder. Not only do motorists take their eyes off the road, but their minds are distracted by the message they are reading.
At Lyons & Snyder, our Coral Springs texting & driving accident lawyer can help anyone hurt by a texting motorist. Please call us today to get started on your case.
Why Is Texting So Dangerous?
There are many reasons why a texting driver will be negligent behind the wheel:
- Cognitive distraction. Research shows that reading a text can distract the mind for nearly 30 seconds after you finish.
- Physical impairment. To text, you usually need to use at least one hand, which you remove from the wheel. It is harder to take split-second defensive action with only one hand.
- Visual distraction. By looking at the phone, you are not looking at the road. You might never see a pedestrian step into a crosswalk or another car stop up ahead.
Unsurprisingly, texting motorists can slam into people at high speeds and cause serious injuries.
How Widespread is Texting & Driving?
Very widespread. According to surveys, roughly 60% of 18- and 19-year-olds admit to using their phones while driving. Overall, 35% of teen drivers admit to texting behind the wheel, and even 10% of parents admit to having a conversation via text while driving. Although these numbers are not specific to Florida, we have no reason to believe the numbers are any lower in the Sunshine State than elsewhere.
Can Florida Combat the Problem?
The state is trying. Our legislature recently passed a law that prohibits reading or typing on a wireless communication device while driving. However, the law is only a noncriminal traffic violation which will net a violator a small fine and no points on their driving record. It’s hard to believe this type of symbolic punishment will deter anyone.
Your Rights Following a Crash
Anyone injured by a texting motorist can bring a lawsuit for their injuries. Texting while driving is an obvious example of negligence. In fact, it’s hard to imagine a situation where a driver needs to look at a cell phone or send a text with the vehicle moving.
If you are successful, you can obtain compensation from the at fault driver for things like:
- Medical expenses
- Future medical bills, like rehab
- Lost income
- Future loss of income
- Physical pain
- Emotional distress or mental anguish
- Property damage
Florida motorists should also have personal injury protection insurance, called PIP. This policy pays benefits on a no-fault basis. However, you can step outside the no-fault system in certain situations, which a Coral Springs texting and driving accident attorney can explain.
Call Us Today
Lyons & Snyder is committed to providing the best representation possible to our clients. A texting and driving accident doesn’t have to be the end of the world. Our Coral Springs texting & driving accident lawyer has the skills needed to bring a successful claim for compensation if you call or send us an online message.
