Distracted driving is a frequent topic of discussion regarding auto accidents in Louisiana.
With the number of people who have cellphones with a variety of features to keep them plugged in with social media, work and more, they are unable to resist the urge to multitask and use their devices when behind the wheel. This puts them and others on the road in danger of a car accident involving injuries and death. Law enforcement and legislators are keenly aware of the issue and are seeking strategies to reduce the risk.
One way in which lawmakers hope to make the roads safer from crashes due to distracted drivers is a proposed bill that would expand the current laws. The current law bans drivers from using their device when they are in a school zone. The new law would make the ban universal across the state.
On the other hand, the fine for a first violation is currently $500. It would be reduced to $100. For a second offense, it would be $300, when it is currently $1,000. A third violation would have a fine of up to $300 and a driver license suspension for 30 days.
In Louisiana, there has been a troubling increase in fatalities on the road due to cellphones. In 2019, there have been 317 injuries and nine deaths because of distracted driving. According to the Department of Transportation, approximately one in three drivers between the ages of 18 and 68 use their device in some way while driving. Nationwide, there are 420,000 injuries stemming from texting and driving each year.
As the law is under consideration, drivers, bicyclists and pedestrians must be cognizant of the dangers on the road because of distracted drivers. Because a failure to pay attention to the road can cause a crash, the injuries and deaths that result will lead to massive medical costs, lost income, funeral costs and other drastic life changes. A law firm that understands how to investigate car accidents and determine the cause is integral to a successful legal filing for compensation.
