A recently published news report discussing an insurance industry study of teen driving behaviors indicated the unsurprising finding that teen drivers who use their smart phones while driving are more likely to engage in other dangerous driving behaviors as well as be involved in an accident. According to a survey conducted nationwide by State Farm on teens aged 16 to 19 years, over 80% of those surveyed admitted to using their smart phone to make calls, send or read text messages, or even watch videos while behind the wheel. Although a large majority of teen drivers admitted to at least some smart phone use while driving, those who admitted to using their phones the most often also reported being involved in the most accidents.
The Link Between Smart Phone Use and Other Dangerous Driving Behaviors
One interesting finding mentioned in the article is the correlation between teen drivers who use their smart phones while driving and other risky or dangerous driving behaviors that may lead to accidents. Many of the teens who have been involved in an accident and admit to using their phones while driving got into an accident due to causes unrelated to cell phone use.
Notably, the article discusses the results of a self-reported survey, and the respondents may not have been completely forthcoming about their smart phone use while driving or the details of any previous accidents, but a clear and significant pattern remains. Teen drivers who tend to use their smart phones while behind the wheel are also more likely to speed, drive while impaired, and drive without wearing a seatbelt.
Legal Responsibility for Florida Accidents Caused by Smart Phone Use
The recent increase in smart phone availability and network capabilities has resulted in an increase in the number of accidents that are caused by a driver using a smart phone instead of watching the road. The laws governing cell phone use while driving vary from state to state. In Florida, it is legal to talk on a handheld or hands-free cell phone while driving, although there is a law against text messaging and using the internet or other apps.
If a driver involved in a crash was using a cell phone in any way, their phone use may be used as evidence that they were distracted and therefore responsible for damages from the crash. South Florida accident victims who suspect that another driver was distracted by their smart phone and caused a crash should contact a qualified Miami accident lawyer to ensure that a thorough investigation is performed on the cause of the accident, since they may be entitled to compensation through a South Florida accident lawsuit.
Have You Been Injured by a Distracted Driver?
If you or a loved one has been injured or killed in a car accident caused by distracted driving, you may be entitled to significant damages for your claim. The experienced South Florida personal injury and negligence attorneys at Friedman, Rodman & Frank utilize investigators and experts who know what to look for to prove another driver was distracted, and we may be able to subpoena cell phone records to help prove the other driver was using their phone when the crash occurred. If you have questions about your case, reach out to a dedicated personal injury lawyer at Friedman, Rodman & Frank and schedule a free consultation today. Contact us at 877-448-8585 or use our web-based contact form.
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