Call Us atDriving distractions are a primary cause of severe, life-threatening, or fatal car crashes annually, putting state officials on alert. Most states have enacted laws to improve highway safety by making dangerous distractions, such as texting, unlawful.
Even so, many ignore the statistics, putting themselves and other motorists at risk of severe harm. You should work with a trusted car accident attorney to pursue legal action if someone else’s carelessness causes you or your loved ones to sustain bodily injuries and property damages. Call Libbey Law Offices, LLC today to schedule a consultation to learn more about texting while driving car accidents in Bothell.
What are the Distracted Driving Laws in Washington?
Distracted motorists are a significant cause of severe or fatal collisions every year. Actions such as checking social media, texting, or talking on the phone put the driver and everyone near them at high risk of collisions with life-altering consequences. According to the Revised Code of Washington ยง 46.71.672, state traffic regulations prohibit drivers from using handheld communication devices while operating vehicles. The statute includes driving while moving or stopping momentarily, such as sitting at red lights.
Motorists may use hands-free devices to make phone calls, but using the phone to browse the internet or read and create text messages is illegal. There is an exception for those calling for help in emergencies. The state further prohibits motorists from engaging in any actions preventing them from safely operating vehicles by taking their focus off reaching their destinations safely. The regulation does not list specific activities but can include anything from applying makeup and adjusting the navigation to eating or drinking beverages.
Penalties for Violations
Penalties for texting while driving violations under the statute include steep fines, including $136 for the first offense, which increases with each subsequent traffic citation. At the consultation, an attorney knowledgeable about vehicle collisions in Bothell could answer specific questions about the process to recover damages.
Different Types of Driver Distractions
Driver distractions involve a vast range of actions, including anything from eating to grooming or interacting with passengers. One of the primary causes of collisions in recent years is handheld cell phones and actions such as texting. Per the studies and information provided by the Municipal Research and Services Center, hazardous driver distractions fall within four primary groups, including:
- Visual distractions are any action taking the driver’s eyes off the road
- Manual obstructions causing motorists to remove one or both hands from the steering wheel
- Cognitive distractions, such as daydreaming, take the vehicle operator’s mind off of driving the automobile safely
- Auditory, such as loud music that affects the driver’s ability to hear, such as the sound of another motorist’s born or emergency vehicles moving out of their way
Distractions may involve one or any combination of the above, increasing the potential for avoidable collisions on state roads and highways. A Bothell lawyer knowledgeable about car crashes caused by texting while driving could request a copy of the at-fault party’s cell phone records and gather other vital documentation to establish liability.
Consult a Bothell Attorney About Texting While Driving Car Accidents
As portable communication devices, such as smartphones, became an essential part of life for most, the number of crashes involving the use by drivers also increased. Therefore, states nationwide continue to raise awareness about the dangers while passing legislation to deter drivers from using them while operating vehicles.
You may be eligible for compensation if a negligent motorist causes you harm. Speak to a lawyer seasoned in handling cases resulting from texting while driving car accidents in Bothell for more information and help with your claim.
