Although the use of cell phones while driving is prohibited in Texas and many other states, some drivers engage in this practice every day. While many of them believe they can do so safely, the reality, however, is that bringing a cell phone to the ear can cause a lot of distractions. As a result, the driver gets disoriented and is unable to have the situational awareness required to safely operate a vehicle.
Texting and cell phone accidents can cause devastating injuries. Among the most frequent types of crashes attributed to distracted driving are rollovers, head-on collisions, sideswipes, failure-to-yield accidents, rear-end collisions, pedestrian accidents, and T-Bone collisions. If you were hurt in a La Marque texting & cell phone accident, your focus should be on physical, emotional, and financial restoration. The car accident lawyers in La Marque at Lone Star Injury Attorneys are ready to help you get the compensation you deserve for total restoration.
The Dangers of Texting and Using Cell Phones While Driving
Texting or the general use of cell phones while driving is a dangerous practice. Drivers who engage in this behavior often put their lives and those of other road users at risk. While some drivers believe they can use their cell phones and drive safely at the same time, the dangers are insurmountable. Below are three major ways that texting and the use of cell phones while driving are dangerous:
- Cognitive distractions. Safe driving requires that the driver’s attention remain on the road alone. Unfortunately, talking on the phone while driving takes this critical aspect of driving away from the driver. For example, one may be in a heated exchange of words that results in anger, causing the driver to behave erratically or aggressively toward other motorists. Even hand-held devices may rob the driver of his or her cognitive functions, thus increasing the risks of texting & cell phone accidents.
- Manual distractions. Another common way that La Marque texting & cell phone accidents occur is as a result of manual distractions. This occurs when the driver takes their hands off the wheel to text or reply to an email. Safe driving entails having both hands on the steering wheel, so when this is not maintained, the driver is likely to lose control of the vehicle, particularly when traveling at high speed.
- Visual distractions. Drivers who use their cell phones while driving usually take their eyes off the road and focus on their devices. As a result, they end up losing touch with their surroundings and often drift out of their lane into oncoming traffic or away from their designated lanes. Since it only takes a split second for a crash to occur, the time taken to reply to a text, watch a video, or view a photo online may be too much.
Many states, including Texas, have enacted laws restricting cell phone use while driving. Under Texas Transportation Code § 545.4251, drivers may not read, write, or send electronic messages while operating a motor vehicle. Understanding how this law applies can help clarify your rights if you are injured in a La Marque texting and cell phone accident.
For a free legal consultation with a texting while driving accident lawyer serving La Marque, call (832) 449-8230
Fault in Texting and Cell Phone Accident Cases
The distracted driver in a La Marque texting and cell phone accident is automatically at fault for your injuries and losses. However, they are not the only party to blame. Hiring a personal injury lawyer in La Marque will boost your chances of recovering compensation through the following means;
Employer Liability
If the driver who caused your injuries following a La Marque texting and cell phone accident was on a business call, you may sue their employer for the damages suffered. A skilled car accident attorney is necessary for collecting evidence from mobile service providers to prove your claim.
Driver Liability
All drivers on Texas roads must carry valid insurance coverage. In case of a texting and cell phone accident where liability falls on them, their insurance companies step in to compensate the victims. You may pursue compensation from your insurance company in case the distracted driver is not insured.
Parental Liability
Accidents involving teens have been on a gradual increase since 2013. Unfortunately, many adolescent crashes involve distracted driving in the form of texting and cell phone usage. In these scenarios, parents, and guardians of underage drivers who cause La Marque texting and cell phone accidents may be sued for compensation.
La Marque Texting While Driving Accident Lawyer Near Me (832) 449-8230
Get Help With Your Texting & Cell Phone Accident Case
Pursuing compensation following a La Marque texting & cell phone accident is a complex, tedious, and time-intensive process. You need a dedicated attorney who will commit their resources, experience, skills, and time to your case. Call our firm today to speak with our team about your legal options and rights.
Call or text (832) 449-8230 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form