Georgia Motor Vehicle Accident Attorneys
Cell Phones, Texting and other Potential distractions
A number of tests have proven that texting or using a cell phone as you are driving a car can be even more hazardous than driving drunk. In fact, a lot of auto wrecks occur, and thousands of individuals are killed or injured every year, due to the fact motorists move their awareness from the road to use a mobile device. Even though some states have passed laws and regulations either prohibiting or restricting this kind of conduct, others have yet to take action. In answer to this hazard, the U.S. Department of Transportation passed DOT 14-10 on January 26, 2010, which prohibits truck and bus drivers from sending text messages while driving. This federal measure is effective immediately and is applicable to drivers of interstate buses and commercial transport weighing over 10,000 lbs. Violators may be subject to civil and/or criminal fines as high as $2,750.
To learn more about efforts by the U.S. DOT to combat driving distractions, look at www.distraction.gov. Even where particular laws and regulations banning this practice have yet to be introduced, drivers can nevertheless be held accountable when they negligently cause accidents while they are texting, talking on cellphones or are otherwise distracted.
GA law requires motorists to exercise due care when driving cars on the highways of this state and forbids individuals from engaging in “…any actions which shall distract such driver from the safe operation of such vehicle.” OCGA: 40-6-241. Although the law specifies that “proper use” of a mobile device isn’t going to be considered as a per se infringement, when the driver’s power to exercise proper care and attention is reduced by the device and causes an accident, an actionable claim for negligence can occur. As technology advances and vehicles become loaded with interactive features like GPS, navigation and satellite radio, the risk of incidents and severe injuries will undoubtedly increase.
If you’ve been hurt in a car wreck due to a driver who was text messaging, talking on a cell phone or otherwise distracted, it is best to speak to a personal injury law firm for a free preliminary discussion. Look for a law firm with numerous years of experience managing car accident cases and will fight hard to get you the compensation you need and deserve.
Find Personal Injury Attorneys in Savannah Georgia today if you have been hurt by a vehicle collision.
A Car and Truck Collision Lawyer in Savannah could be able to get you the compensation that’s rightfully yours.

August 10th, 2010
Christopher
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