No one should suffer because someone wanted to send a text message behind the wheel.
In Maryland, it is illegal to use a handheld phone while driving. Research shows that using a mobile phone while driving is one of the main causes of car accidents. Some studies have even proven that the impairments associated with mobile phone use behind the wheel are comparable with those associated with drunk driving. Drivers who neglect to keep themselves and others safe on the road put everyone at risk.
If you have been injured in a distracted driving accident, you should seek the legal guidance of a competent car accident attorney. No one should suffer because someone wanted to send a text message behind the wheel.
Why are Cell Phones so Dangerous?
Paying attention is one of the most effective ways to stay safe on the road. There are many causes of distracted driving, but one of the most common is cell phone usage. Most people know that using a cell phone while driving is dangerous, but many tend to ignore this risk, thinking that a quick glance at the screen won’t hurt. It is necessary to be aware of how detrimental cell phone use is to your ability to drive safely. Some of the way mobile phone usage impairs your driving ability include:
- Visual Impairment. When your eyes are away from the road, and on a cell phone, even for a second, they cannot react to sudden changes. In critical moments, such as a pedestrian running into the road or a car losing control beside you, using a cell phone is a matter of life or death.
- Manual Distraction. You need both hands to properly and safely handle your vehicle. While it may seem easy to text with one hand and steer with the other, your manual dexterity will be inhibited, and all it takes is a split-second to cause an accident.
- Loss of Focus. Driving is a mental and physical task that requires concentration, focus, and making split-second decisions. When you use your phone, your mind is distracted by things other than driving, causing slowed reaction times and impaired judgment.
Defining Distracted Driving in Maryland
Maryland law defines distracted driving as any activity diverting a driver’s attention away from the task of driving. While anything can be a distraction, cell phones play a primary role in the number of deaths and injuries caused by distracted driving each year.
Even if you use a hands-free device, it is extremely easy to become distracted by a phone call, or technical issues with the phone, resulting in a car accident. Maryland prohibits texting for all drivers and bans handheld cell phone use.
The best way to prevent distracted driving is to eliminate the sources of distraction as much as possible. Knowing what causes distractions and the serious consequences could help you take steps against dangerous driving. Contact us today to schedule a free case evaluation if you have been injured in a distracted driving accident.
Contact The Snyder Law Group Today
The Snyder Law Group, LLC, proudly represents clients throughout Maryland and Washington, D.C. Our experienced Baltimore attorneys understand the frustration that comes with an insurance company, medical professional, or other party that refuses to accept liability for negligent or reckless behavior. You can take heart in knowing there are talented and experienced lawyers ready to work for you. We are experienced in handling personal injury claims of medical malpractice or injury resulting from serious car and truck accidents, and have secured hundreds of millions in verdicts and settlements. Please visit our website, www.410thefirm.com, or call us at 410-843-3476, for more information. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.