Cell Phone Use and Car Accidents

Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of auto accidents, and cell phone use is one of the most common ways drivers become distracted. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 5,500 traffic fatalities were caused by distracted driving in 2009. More than a million traffic accidents are caused by cell phone use yearly.

Current Texas laws regarding cell phone use while driving include:

• Teens under 18 may not use cell phones or text messaging devices while driving.
• Drivers of any age may not use handheld devices while driving in a school crossing zone.

Teens are not the only age group who uses cell phones while driving. Adults also text and talk on their phones while driving. Adults can legally use their cell phones while driving; however, they can still be held accountable for driver negligence that causes a car accident and injuries.

If you were injured by a driver who was using a cell phone, you may be able to file a personal injury claim in an attempt to recover compensation. Although not illegal for all drivers, cell phone use by a negligent driver can cause you to be facing a number of consequences, including:

• Medical bills
• Lost wages
• Pain and suffering

You should not have to pay for an injury that was caused by a negligent, distracted driver who was using a cell phone.

If you have been injured in an auto accident in Dallas or the surrounding areas, please contact the experienced auto accident lawyers at Polewski Law, P.C., to schedule a complimentary consultation.