An estimated 424,000 people in the United States were injured in distraction-related crashes last year. Approximately 3154 of those people sustained fatal injuries, 445 of which were related to cell phone use.
To reduce the number of personal injuries caused by distracted driving, the State of Massachusetts implemented the Safe Driving Law, which bans sending, typing or reading electronic messages to and from a handheld device while driving. It also bans junior operators from havingany handheld electronic devices while behind the wheel. Violating this law is punishable with a fine and license suspension.
A distracted driver is dangerous to everyone, including themselves, their passengers, other drivers and pedestrians. For your safety, use the following tips to avoid an accident caused by distracted driving.
- Turn off your phone or put it on silent.
- Ask a passenger to text or make a phone call for you.
- Prepare directions beforehand.
- Pull over to address any issues with your kids or other passengers.
- Focus on driving. Refrain from any activity that will take your eyes off the road. Anything you do behind the wheel, can be done when you’ve stopped or pulled over.
If you or someone you know has been injured as a result of distracted driving, please contact the DiBella Law Office for more information or to schedule an appointment with an experienced Burington car accident attorney.
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