New Study Reveals Parents Are Texting While Driving at High Rates
What should I do if I am injured by a texting driver in Georgia?
Car accident rates have surged in recent years as more people across the United States find themselves glued to their smartphones, even while driving. The National Safety Council reports that over 1.6 million accidents involving cell phone use happen each year. An estimated 400,000 injuries occur annually due to texting while driving. Even though the hazards of texting and driving are well known, the number of Americans who persist in this dangerous behavior continues to grow. Until more of us take the step of truly putting down our phones as we drive, distracted driving accidents will continue to pose a significant threat to all drivers.
Parents Not Deterred from Texting
A study was recently released by the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia in conjunction with the University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing. The study found that a third of all parents polled admit to reading text messages. One in four of parents included in the study sent text messages, while one in seven used social media. All of these actions occurred while the parents were driving with their children between the ages of four and ten.
The study involved 760 parents and caregivers of young children. In addition to texting while driving, the study found that parents who admitted cell phone use also engaged in other risky behaviors. Risky behaviors include driving under the influence, improper use of child restraints, and not wearing a seatbelt.
Your Rights if Injured by a Texting Driver
Given the high rate of drivers who use their phones while behind the wheel, there is a significant chance that if you are injured in an accident, the driver was distracted. Anyone who has been involved in an accident that could have been caused by the driver texting will want to take prompt action to preserve evidence. Contact local authorities to report the accident. Notify officers of your suspicions so that they can investigate. Receive the medical treatment you need.
As soon as possible after the crash, retain the assistance of an automobile accident attorney. Your lawyer will review the facts surrounding the case to provide you with an accurate overview of your legal rights. If texting or distraction is believed to be an issue, your lawyer will take swift action to preserve cell phone and other relevant records.
Posted in: Automobile Wrecks