Cell Phones

There are many dangerous distractions that can take a driver’s eyes off the road or limit his or her ability to control an automobile. People eat, switch stations on the radio, apply make-up, or fix their hair in the mirror—and they also talk on their cell phones while behind the wheel. Statewide, 1,032 cell phone-related traffic crashes were reported in 2001, a dramatic increase over previous years. Studies have shown that reaction time can be just as slow for someone who is holding a cell phone to his or her ear as it is for someone intoxicated by alcohol or drugs. Recently, headsets have been widely used to help minimize the risk, but the statistics prove that despite these measures cell phones are still a hazard on the road.

Multiple bills restricting cell phone use while driving have been introduced in the last few years, but few have passed. Change is coming slowly for this issue. If you or a loved one has been involved in an accident with a negligent driver on his or her cell phone, contact our office today.