In today’s world, there are more and more ways that one can become side-tracked while driving, creating dangerous risks. Cell phones and GPS are some primary examples of the predominant causes of distracted driving in Alabama. Other causes of distracted driving can include eating while driving, adjusting the radio dial, or even putting on makeup while operating a car.
Whatever the specific distraction might be, the result is the same. Distracted drivers pose a significant danger to public safety, as they are far more likely to induce an accident and cause injury to others due to their lack of attention to the road. Whether you are a pedestrian, cyclist, or driving or riding in another vehicle, your safety is jeopardized every time a driver nearby engages in distracted driving.
If you were the victim of an accident caused by distracted driving, you need to seek help from a Montgomery car accident lawyer to learn about your rights.
Distracted Driving In Alabama: The Facts
The Alabama Department of Transportation defines distracted driving as “any activity that could divert a person’s attention away from their primary task of driving.” As mentioned, this can include using mobile devices or engaging in non-electronic distractions. Consider the following:
- There are roughly 155,000 car accidents every year in the state of Alabama, many of which are due to distracted driving.
- Research indicates that a texting driver has 23 times the risk of a crash than drivers who keep their phones down.
- In a recent year, distracted driving was the cause of at least 40 fatalities from car accidents in the state.
- A study found that 43% of Alabama teens admitted to engaging in distracted driving on the roads.
Alabama has been proactive in trying to address this issue. Back in 2012, Alabama became the 38th state in the country to make texting while driving illegal. However, the use of a cell phone while driving is still permitted, despite legislative efforts to outlaw that as well.
While there are some laws against distracted driving on the books, their enforcement is lacking. Texting while driving in Alabama only carries with it a $25 fine for the first offense and only $50 for the second. This fine is minuscule compared to most other states with similar laws. Thus, the law is not as effective as it could be. Due to this, the problem persists, and distracted driving has quickly become a public safety concern in our state.
Learn More from a Montgomery Car Accident Attorney
If you have been injured in an accident caused by a distracted driver in Montgomery, you can file a legal claim against that driver for damages. In order to pursue this claim, you need the experienced and competent legal representation provided by Luck Law LLC. We will fight to protect your rights to compensation for your injuries caused by the mistakes of a distracted driver. Contact us today by visiting our website online or calling us at 334.262.5455.
