How Cell Phone Use Contributes to Accidents in New York
New York laws currently in effect make cell phone use while driving illegal.
You cannot place or receive a call, talk with the cell phone to your ear,
text or use an electronic device while driving. The only exception is
to place a 911 call. What is the reason for this new law? Cell phone use
while driving causes accidents. Drivers become distracted “visually,
physically and cognitively” and their driving is impaired.
For more than three decades, Rubenstein & Rynecki have helped people
injured by car accidents to determine the cause of their accident, identify
liable parties and recover fair compensation for damages.
Statistics on Cell Phone Use and Driving
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reported that
in 2011, 3,331 people died in traffic crashes involving a distracted driver.
However, a recent report in the
New York Daily News cited a study that indicated car crash fatalities related to cell phone
use are underreported. Of the cases studied, approximately half involved
suspected cell phone use that went unreported.
NHTSA estimates that cell phone and other electronic device use while driving
increases the risk of a
car accident by three times. A study done by researchers at the University of Utah
revealed that drivers talking on handheld and hands-free cell phones were
as impaired as drunken drivers.
What Does This Mean for Your Car Accident Case?
In any
personal injury accident case, proving the defendant’s negligence is the key factor.
Evidence of negligence exists when another driver is talking or texting
while driving. The court still evaluates and assigns the percentage of
negligence to all parties involved in the car accident. However, cell
phone use on the part of the other driver can definitely tip the scales.
When an officer stops drivers for talking or texting while driving in New
York City, the citation can add five points to their driving record. Conviction
for cell phone use violations can result in 60-day license suspensions
for drivers with probationary licenses. A repeated conviction can lead
to a six month revocation. Presenting records of the other driver’s
cell phone violation conviction as evidence helps your lawyer substantiate
your injury case.
Representation Since 1972
At Rubenstein & Rynecki, our New York City car accident attorneys bring extensive experience to
every case we handle, and over the years we have helped thousands of clients
recover compensation. It costs you nothing to discuss your accident with
us and we may be able to help.
No recovery, no fee.
Contact us today for a free consultation.
