Litigating Texting and Driving Cases

Texting is not an inherently dangerous activity. However, if someone does it while driving, they threaten their own safety and the safety of every driver, passenger, and pedestrian around them. If you have been injured in a texting and driving car accident, you have every right to demand compensation. Here’s what you need to know about litigating texting and driving cases.

The Dangers of Texting and Driving

Texting and driving is the new drunk driving. Alarmingly, about one in four car crashes in recent years have involved cell phone use, and texting behind the wheel is now the leading cause of death among teens.

Texting and driving is so unsafe because it incorporates the three main categories of driving distractions:

• Visual distractions take your eyes off the road. Sending a text while driving 55 miles per hour is like traveling the length of a football field with your eyes closed.
• Manual distractions take your hands off the steering wheel. When fast reaction times are a must, having one hand on a cell phone could prove disastrous.
• Cognitive distractions take your mind off the task of driving. Using a cell phone is a cognitively demanding task that can make you miss critical information about potential hazards.

Georgia’s Distracted Driving Laws

Each state has its own laws against distracted driving. In Georgia, text messaging and handheld device use of any kind is prohibited for all drivers. Specific restrictions while operating a motor vehicle include:

• No writing, sending, or reading any text-based communications, including text messages, emails, instant messages, or web pages
• No use of cell phones, tablets, laptops, or other similar messaging devices
• No watching videos or movies, and no recording or broadcasting video from a handheld device
• No pressing of multiple buttons on a cell phone or similar device to initiate or terminate voice communications (applicable to commercial drivers)
• No reaching for a cell phone or similar device if doing so requires the driver to stand or unfasten their seatbelt (applicable to commercial drivers)

Essentially, the law only allows hands-free electronic device use while operating a motor vehicle. This means drivers can use Bluetooth or other voice-operated technology to engage in telecommunication without taking their hands or eyes off the road.

Why Pursue Evidence of Texting and Driving in a Car Accident Case?

If you hope to maximize your compensation, you must show that the other driver’s reckless or negligent behavior caused the accident. Texting and driving is a prime example of this. If you can demonstrate that the driver was on their phone, it can add credibility to your case and prove liability.

The auto accident lawyers at Taps & Associates have exceptional experience litigating texting and driving cases in Atlanta. We bring an unparalleled level of professionalism and attention to detail to your case, ensuring the best outcome possible. To request your free case evaluation, please contact us online or call 404-492-8746. We’ll help you seek the compensation you deserve!