Things to Know if You Were Injured in a Texting While Driving Accident

Smartphones allow us to remain connected at all times of the day and night—but just because a person has the ability to text, check email and brows the internet on demand, that’s not to say it’s always the best idea.

Law enforcement officials throughout the US note that distracted driving can be just as dangerous, if not more dangerous than driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

Statistics show that there is a 1 in 4 chance that an auto accident was caused because a driver was checking their smartphone.

Texting while driving is against the law in Florida

Florida laws about texting and driving are clear. According to Florida Statute 316.305(3)(a):

“A person may not operate a motor vehicle while manually typing or entering multiple letters, numbers, symbols, or other characters into a wireless communications device or while sending or reading data on such a device for the purpose of non-voice interpersonal communication, including, but not limited to, communication methods known as texting, e-mailing, and instant messaging.”

Texting and driving is dangerous

The National Highway Traffic Safety Adminstration has found that a driver that’s texting and driving is six times more dangerous (yes, you read that correctly) than a person who is driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

The no-texting-and-driving laws are in place for a reason; when someone chooses to ignore these laws they put themselves and everyone at risk.

Filing a personal injury lawsuit

Countless motorcycle accidents and car accidents are caused each year by distracted drivers. If you have questions about whether you may be able to file a personal injury lawsuit as a means of receiving compensation for your injuries and/or lost income, you’ll want to contact a Naples law firm as soon after the accident as you are able.

You may be eligible to receive reimbursement for medical and dental bills, lost wages, out-of-pocket expenses and for pain and suffering.

Remember- it may be tempting to accept an early settlement from an insurance company, but the insurance company does not have your best interest in mind. The job of an insurance company is to minimize its losses, which is why you’ll want to have an experienced personal injury attorney in your corner.

If you’ve been in an accident that was caused by someone who was texting and driving, call The Law Offices of Marc L. Shapiro, P.A. today at 239-649-8050.