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Distracted driving is a significant safety administration issue in California, and the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) is committed to helping reduce the number of fatalities and injuries caused by it. In California, any activity that takes the driver’s attention away from driving is considered a form of distracted driving, including texting while driving, email while driving, talking on the phone, hands-free, eating, reckless driving, and grooming. The OTS works in partnership with law enforcement, government agencies, public health organizations, and the public to develop and implement traffic safety initiatives to reduce distracted driving-related crashes and fatalities.

In addition, the OTS provides education and awareness about the dangers of distracted driving and resources and tools to help Californians make intelligent choices when behind the wheel. The OTS also works with law enforcement to ensure distracted drivers are held accountable for their actions. The OTS strives to make California’s roads safer for everyone by staying focused on preventing and enforcement.

What Causes Distracted Driving Accidents?

Distracted driving is a severe problem with potentially fatal implications. It is defined as any activity that diverts attention away from the core goal of driving. Distracted driving may cause car accidents, resulting in thousands of injuries and deaths each year. Common causes of distracted driving include:

  • Cell phone use.
  • Eating and drinking while driving.
  • Adjusting audio or climate controls.
  • Grooming.
  • Reaching for items in the vehicle.

These activities can take a driver’s focus off the road for even a few seconds, which can be enough time to cause an accident. Other causes include daydreaming, talking to passengers, and rubbernecking. These distractions can increase the risk of vehicle crashes or near miss. As a result, it is essential to be aware of potential distractions and to stay focused on the task of driving in order to protect the safety of everyone on the road.

The Consequences of Distracted Driving in California 

Distracted driving is a significant issue in California, with the number of drivers engaging in this risky behavior increasing yearly. As a result, collisions and fatalities due to driving while distracted have become alarmingly common. Not only does this present a danger to drivers but also to pedestrians, cyclists, and other individuals who share the road. As a result, distracted drivers are risking their own lives and others on the road. Unfortunately, many drivers are unaware of the increased risks of distracted driving, such as sending text messages or talking or looking at your phone while driving. Checking a map or changing the radio can also be harmful distractions since they divert a driver’s focus away from the road.

Distracted driving may have disastrous results. Drivers caught engaging may face fines, license suspension, and even jail time. In addition, they may be held liable for any injuries or damages caused by their negligence. As a result, California has implemented several laws and regulations to reduce the number of distracted drivers on the road. These regulations make it illegal to use your phone or other electronic gadgets while driving and compel drivers to pay attention on the road at all times.

Tips for Preventing Distracted Driving

Not only do you not want to be the victim of a distracted driver, but you also don’t want to be the cause of one. The following list of tips will help you prevent a distracted driving collision:

  • Never ever take a phone in your hand. To view the map without taking your eyes off the road while using it for navigation, mount it to the dashboard. If you don’t want to view more banners or pop-up notifications while driving, turn off other notifications.
  • Before getting inside the car, turn off your phone. Included in this are other electrical gadgets with audio notifications.
  • Don’t use any applications or social media while driving; texting isn’t the only thing to avoid. Pull over where it is safe to do so if you need to read or send a text or to look at something.There is now a Do Not Disturb While Driving feature on some smartphones. Consider equipping it if yours has this capability.
  • Reduce the loudness of your music. Hearing sounds outside the car is essential.

If you know someone is likely to be involved in distracted driving, don’t text or call them.

Frequently Asked Questions Related to Distracted Driving

1. Who will cover my damages if I file a claim for a distracted driving collision?

Your compensation would most likely come from the distracted driver’s insurance carrier through your claim if you are hurt in an accident that was brought on by that driver. Our personal injury attorney will assist in proving that the other motorist was at fault for your accident and that distraction actually caused it.

2. I was hit while texting and driving. Can I file a lawsuit?

Yes. California has a number of distracted driving laws, one of which makes it unlawful to use a phone while driving a motor vehicle. You may have a strong case and be eligible for financial compensation if you were hurt in a car accident caused by another driver who was sending a text message. Call 888-888-2598 to reach Ariel Law Group.

3. How can you establish that a driver is inattentive?

The location of the auto collision is the first place to look for evidence of a distracted driver. Food, makeup, the driver holding a phone in his or her hand, and other potential distractions should be recognized. Taking pictures and noticing the time of an accident can be really beneficial.

4. How much money can I get in a distracted driving accident claim?

Numerous factors affect the amount of compensation you are entitled to in a distracted driving auto accident claim. The amount of compensation you receive for your injuries will depend on a number of factors, including the seriousness of your injuries, the cost of your medical bills and procedures, and the type of insurance the at-fault party carries.

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