Texting While Driving Car Accidents in El Centro

It is common knowledge that texting and driving is dangerous. It has been proven to increase a driver’s chance of getting into an accident, yet many drivers do it nonetheless. It is so easy to get distracted by a notification flashing on your phone while you are behind the wheel that sometimes using it is not even intentional—it is merely a reflex. However, anything can happen in mere seconds; that includes getting into a car accident when you or another driver were using your phone to text while driving.

When drivers do not pay attention to the road, their chances of getting into an auto collision rise. After experiencing a crash, involved parties may face severe injuries and a mountain of unexpected bills. There are legal consequences for texting and driving in most states. When you are involved in this type of wreck, do not hesitate to contact a seasoned motor vehicle collision attorney familiar with texting while driving car accidents in El Centro. The experienced legal professionals at our firm could provide valuable information, advocacy, and advice.

Local Laws Regarding Texting While Driving

California law prohibits drivers from using handheld devices while behind the wheel. Hands-free devices are allowed. A phone can be used when it is properly mounted to a center console or windshield, and the driver can only use voice commands or a single-finger swipe/tap to operate the device. However, drivers younger than 18 cannot use phones in any way.

There are penalties for those who do not obey local laws banning texting while behind the steering wheel. A driver is given one point to their driving record when they are convicted of the same cell phone violation in the past 36 months. A motorist may be punished with license suspension or revocation if they accrue:

• 4 points within 12 months
• 6 points within 24 months
• 8 points within 36 months.

A driver’s license will be suspended for six months for having too many points or being negligent. The initial fine is $20 for the first offense and $50 for the second or following offense, but penalties and fees can greatly increase the ticket’s cost.

Injured parties who want to hold the other driver accountable for their reckless actions by texting behind the wheel should consult a qualified El Centro lawyer for legal assistance.

Injuries and Liability Following Texting and Driving Accidents

Various injuries can stem from car accidents; drivers, pedestrians, and passengers can all be affected. Some injuries can be minor, but others could be significant or even life-threatening. Some examples include:

• PTSD
• Whiplash
• Concussions
• Broken bones
• Head trauma
• Spinal cord injuries
• Permanent disability
• Paralysis

There is no standard compensation for car crash injuries because every case has different factors.

If a negligent driver caused a crash, they can be held responsible for the costs that the injured parties incur. Negligence exists when someone owes a duty of care to another person, such as the duty to drive safely to avoid injuring other drivers on the road. When drivers fail to uphold that duty of care, and the other party sustains injury solely from their action or inaction, they can meet the legal standard of negligence. Injured individuals can leave the legal work for their texting while driving accident lawsuit in the hands of a capable El Centro legal professional while they focus on their recovery.

Pursue a Texting While Driving Car Accident Claim With the Help of an El Centro Attorney

Many California drivers continue to engage with their phones instead of focusing on the road in front of them, even though they know texting while driving is dangerous. Long-term consequences can result from someone being distracted by their phone for just a few seconds.

When you suffer due to someone else’s negligence, it can feel unjust and unfair. The right attorney could help you seek accountability and pursue the maximum compensation you are entitled to. Take the first step toward justice today by calling our law firm for a free case consultation.