How Cell-Phones Cause Car Accidents
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A survey of dangerous driver behavior was released in January 2007 by the Nationwide Mutual Insurance Co. The survey found that 73% of drivers talk on cell phones while driving. Although the survey only included 1200 drivers, I believe it is valid based on the people I see talking on phones in Arkansas. The study also found cell phone use was highest among young drivers. That certainly has been our experience.
In our practice we have found young drivers to be especially dangerous. Young drivers think it is cool to be talking on a cell phone and driving. Little do they realize that by doing so, they are just as impaired as a drunk driver.
In a separate study done by the Liberty Mutual Research Institute for Safety and Students Against Destructive Decisions the researchers found that 19% of motorists say they text message while driving. It is hard for me to believe someone can text message while driving. Is that possible?
We now know that motorists who use cell phones while driving are four times as likely to have an accident as motorists who are paying attention to the road.
States are beginning to wake up and pass bans on the use of cell phones while driving based on these studies. About 17 States have passed laws banning or restricting young drivers from using cell phones. California is the most recent.
If you have been injured in an accident, it may make a big difference to the amount of your recovery if the other driver was using a cell phone. Be sure and find out. A trial lawyer can help.