April is Distracted Driving Awareness month. According to data from NHTSA, distracted driving killed 3,522 people in 2021 and 3,308 people in 2022. These numbers tell us that distracted driving is a big problem on our roads. Using cell phones for texting, calling, and social media is the most common type of distraction but there are other risky driving behaviors. These other behaviors can include changing the radio or GPS, applying makeup, and eating or drinking.
Distracted driving poses a significant danger due to diverting attention away from the road and increasing the risk of accidents. When drivers engage in distractions, their focus shifts away from important driving tasks. These tasks include observing traffic signals, anticipating road hazards, and reacting quickly to unexpected situations. These lost seconds can impair a person’s ability to make timely, informed decisions, thereby increasing the likelihood of car accidents.
The consequences of distracted driving can be severe, leading to injuries, fatalities, and extensive property damage. Therefore, it’s crucial for drivers to recognize the dangers of distractions and prioritize their attention solely on driving to ensure the safety of themselves and others on the road.
If you or a loved one was involved in a crash caused by a distracted driver, you deserve full and fair compensation for your injuries. Contact a local car accident attorney for help.
Washington Traffic Safety Commission Increases Patrols for Distracted Driving Awareness Month
In honor of Distracted Driving Awareness month, the Washington Traffic Safety Commission (WTSC) announced this week that law enforcement agencies across the state will be increasing patrols this month with a focus on identifying distracted drivers on the road. The purpose of the patrols is to encourage drivers to focus on the road to decrease distracted driving accidents.
WTSC’s 2023 Annual Statewide Traffic Safety Survey showed that most Washington drivers understand the dangers of “typing or interacting with their cell phones in their hands” while driving, with only one percent saying that the behavior wasn’t dangerous. However, 28 percent of survey respondents admitted that they have engaged in this behavior while driving, which shows that patrols can offer a good reminder to drivers to avoid making poor choices.
Distracted Driving is a Violation of Washington’s E-DUI Law
Distracted driving is a violation of Washington’s Driving Under the Influence of Electronics (E-DUI) law, which states drivers cannot hold cell phones or watch videos while they are driving, stopped in traffic or at a stop light. Hands-free use is limited to a single touch device. The initial offense leads to an E-DUI citation, which carries a penalty of $136 for drivers. If a driver gets a second citation within five years, the fine goes up to $234.
Drivers can visit the Washington Traffic Safety Commission’s website to learn tips for staying focused on the road. Materials are available in seven languages.
Seek the help of a car accident lawyer
If you or a loved one was injured in a collision because of the negligence of another, contact a personal injury lawyer to discuss your legal rights. Let an experienced car accident attorney fight for the full compensation that you deserve. It is not uncommon to receive a settlement from the insurance company that is five to ten times larger with the help of a lawyer. Call the personal injury lawyers at Tario & Associates, P.S. in Bellingham, WA today for a FREE consultation! We have been representing residents of Whatcom County, Skagit County, Island County and Snohomish County since 1979. You will pay nothing up front and no attorney fees at all unless we recover damages for you!
