With our increasing use of electronic devices and the stressful pace of many peoples’ lives, distracted driving is becoming even more of a problem on Florida highways and streets.
According to the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention, each day, an average of nine victims are killed and 1,000 injured in motor vehicle accidents in the United States due to distracted driving.
This danger increases even more when the motorist is a teenager, who already has the disadvantage of being a less-experienced driver.
Why Teens Are Distracted While Driving
When someone is engaged in distracted driving, his eyes and mind aren't fully on his task. Drivers under the age of 20 have the largest proportion of fatal crashes caused by distracted driving. They're also more likely to engage in other risky behaviors, such as not wearing seat belts, driving after drinking, or being a passenger with a driver who has been drinking.
According to a study in 2016 by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, distracted driving played a role in six of 10 crashes involving teenagers between 16 and 17. Some of the dangerous distracted driving practices teens engage in include:
- Talking to other passengers—the top distraction in AAA’s study
- Using a cellphone—the next most common reason for distracted driving crashes
- Using a mobile device to search the internet
- Watching movies or videos on an electronic device
- Browsing social media or taking selfies
- Personal grooming, such as putting on makeup or styling hair
- Eating and drinking
- Partying while driving
- Reading
Florida’s Laws on Cellphone Use When Driving
It's permissible to talk on a cellphone while driving, but it's illegal to drive and text. It's also illegal to use a phone while driving to read or send emails, or interact on social media sites. Whether a distracted driving practice is illegal or not, it can still be considered negligence if a teenage driver causes an accident due to these dangerous activities.
Did a distracted teen or other driver cause your accident? We can help you file your claim for compensation and fight with the insurance company for the compensation you deserve. To schedule a free initial consultation, call our office today.
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