Why using a phone while driving is a recipe for disaster
Knowing that smartphones are one of the primary distractions for drivers in Connecticut, the state has launched a campaign called “Put the Phone Away or Pay” to crack down on negligent motorists.
According to the Connecticut Department of Transportation, the April 2024 campaign will lead to beefed-up enforcement of distracted driving laws throughout the month. Distracted driving continues to be a pressing public safety concern. According to CTDOT, this type of dangerous driving resulted in nine deaths and 850 injuries in 2021.
How does the use of a smartphone increase the risk of an accident?
A Connecticut accident attorney knows there are several compelling reasons why using a smartphone while driving is a recipe for disaster, including:
- Impaired Attention: Operating a vehicle requires full concentration. When drivers divert their attention to their smartphones, whether to read a text message, check social media, or make a call, their focus shifts away from the road ahead. This impaired attention significantly increases the risk of accidents, as drivers fail to anticipate hazards or react in a timely manner.
- Decreased Reaction Time: Research has shown that engaging in smartphone activities while driving can lead to a significant decrease in reaction time. Even a momentary glance at a phone screen can cause a driver to miss critical cues on the road, such as sudden stops, pedestrians crossing, or vehicles changing lanes.
- Loss of Control: Taking your eyes off the road to interact with a smartphone compromises your ability to maintain control of the vehicle. Drivers distracted by phones might swerve into other lanes, drift off the road, or fail to navigate curves and intersections safely.
- Legal Consequences: In Connecticut, using a smartphone while driving is not only dangerous but also illegal. Drivers 18 years of age and older need hands-free accessories to legally use cell phones. Drivers who are 16 or 17 years of age are restricted from using any type of cell phone or mobile electronic device while driving, even with hands-free accessories.
Whether it's activating "Do Not Disturb" mode, stowing your phone out of reach, or using hands-free technology, taking proactive measures to minimize distractions can make a world of difference in preventing accidents and saving lives. We applaud the “Put the Phone Away or Pay” campaign in April, but it’s important to recognize the danger of distracted driving throughout the year. Too much is at stake to take risks by looking at a phone while driving.
What to do if you're hit by a distracted driver
If you are injured by a distracted driver or lose a loved one in an accident, your world will change in an instant. Every year, thousands of lives are lost, and countless others are injured in accidents caused by distracted driving. Behind every statistic is a human tragedy—a family shattered, dreams destroyed and futures altered forever.
The assistance of a distracted driving accident lawyer in Connecticut can be instrumental in helping you navigate the complex legal landscape, pursue fair compensation, and achieve a sense of closure and justice.
How a Connecticut lawyer can help
If you've been injured in a car accident, don't hesitate to seek legal guidance to protect your rights and secure the assistance you need to move forward.
Contact the Law Offices of Mark E. Salomone & Morelli, serving all of Connecticut.
Talk to us today. When we handle a personal injury case, we work aggressively for our clients, ensuring their rights are protected throughout the legal process. We will work to achieve the best possible outcome for your case and fight for the maximum compensation you deserve.