Distracted driving is one of the top causes of motor vehicle accidents on today’s roadways. This isn’t much of a surprise, as the use of cell phones and other hand-held devices continues to rise. However, many people underestimate the level of danger they are putting themselves, and everyone else on the road, in each time they glance down to read a text or navigate directions on a GPS. Anything that takes your eyes or mind off the road, or your hands off the wheel is a distraction and increases your risk of having a serious accident. In fact, in the United States alone, nine people are killed every day and more than 1,100 are injured due to distracted driving. Contact a Des Moines Injury Lawyer Today.
Texting is not the only form of distracted driving. Eating, drinking, applying make-up, adjusting the stereo, and even talking to passengers can be dangerously distracting. Although we all know that distracted driving is dangerous, the vast majority of us admit to doing it at one time or another. In one CDC study, approximately 69% of U.S.drivers between the ages of 18 and 64 admitted to using their cell phone while driving at some point in time. In the same study, 31% of those surveyed admitted to reading or sending texts while driving.
Young People Most at Risk
In today’s technology-crazed world, most drivers are at risk of being distracted. However, there are certain groups that have an increased risk – namely, young people. How is this determined? For starters, the highest incidence of fatal distraction-related motor vehicle accidents occurs in drivers under the age of 20. In addition, young drivers are more likely to engage in risky behaviors. This can mean speeding, reckless driving, and distracted driving. Although distracted driving is dangerous for everyone, it is especially dangerous for young people who have less driving experience and are more likely to speed.
Does Iowa Need Tougher ‘Texting While Driving’ Laws?
In the state of Iowa, it is not illegal to use cell phones while driving. Even hand-held phones are allowed. However, it is illegal to text and drive. As more and more states adopt hands-free laws, Iowa is considering the same. Many lawmakers agree that Iowa needs tougher laws against cell phone use while driving. The current laws do little to prevent texting while driving. Even if police see someone texting, they can’t pull that person over unless a separate violation was committed. If hands-free laws are enacted, police could stop a car if they saw the driver texting or talking on the phone.
The Hope Law Firm – Accident and Injury Attorneys Serving Des Moines and the Surrounding Areas
If you have been injured due to another person’s distracted driving, we can help. At the Hope Law Firm, we focus on obtaining compensation for accident and injury victims. It is our goal to make the process as smooth as possible so that you can get on with your life. You may be feeling overwhelmed by mounting medical bills, property damage expenses, time off work, and dealing with insurance companies. Let the attorneys at the Hope Law Firm shoulder that burden for you. Don’t go through this alone. Contact us today for a free consultation about your case.