It is estimated that 25% of all car, truck, and motorcycle accidents on Jefferson City, Missouri roadways are caused by distracted drivers. Consider the implications of that statement: if drivers made driving their sole focus, 25% of all Jeff City accidents would be prevented.
What is distracted driving?
Distracted driving is any activity that takes your attention away from the road. The most common culprit is texting while driving; however, there are many others forms of distracted driving as well.
Putting on makeup, eating, turning around to check on children or a pet, picking up a dropped item, adjusting the radio, reading, and talking on a cell phone have all been linked to distracted driving accidents. In addition, when a teen driver is behind the wheel, research has shown that peer passengers significantly increase the risk of an accident. Add one passenger to a teen driver's vehicle, and the chances of a fatal crash instantly double. Add three or more passengers, and the risk is quadrupled.
How do I avoid distracted driving?
Remind yourself - and your teenagers - that driving is a huge responsibility. You hold your own life and the lives of others in your hands. While you're driving on Missouri roadways, nothing is as important as driving safely.
If you need to text, take a call, or deal with the kids, pull off the roadway. That minute you take may save a life, even your life or that of your children.
Is distracted driving illegal in Missouri?
Absolutely, distracted driving causes a hazard so it's thereby illegal on Missouri roadways. Texting while driving is illegal for all those 21 and younger. Bills limiting texting and cell phone use were introduced into the state legislature in 2009 and 2010.
It is possible that a full ban on texting will be Missouri law relatively soon. However, because texting is a driving hazard, it is in your best interest to consider texting while driving to be against the law presently. If you're texting while driving and you cause an accident, the court will likely find that you were not exercising the required due care.
What do I do if my loved one was injured by a distracted driver?
If your loved one has been injured or killed by a distracted driver, you are entitled to compensation for the damages you've sustained. Such damages may include loss of wages, medical bills, funeral bills, loss of benefits, loss of consortium, and pain and suffering.
It is in your best interest to hire a Jefferson City, Missouri auto accident attorney to file and pursue your claim. Negotiating with the insurance company yourself is likely not in your best interest. Their goal is simply to pay out the smallest amount possible to resolve the claim.
Call our personal injury lawyers now for a free confidential, no obligation consultation: you can reach us toll free at 1-888-777-AUTO, or via our website. We are available 24/7/365 for your convenience.
Attorney meetings by appointment only