Distracted Driving Accidents

PROVEN NJ LAWYERS SEEK COMPENSATION FOR DISTRACTED DRIVING ACCIDENTS

HOLDING DRIVERS ACCOUNTABLE FOR TEXTING AND CELLPHONE USE BEHIND THE WHEEL

The first and most important rule of driving is to keep your eyes on the road. Unfortunately, too many drivers have become so addicted to technology that they can’t put their cellphones away even while driving on major thoroughfares. If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident with a distracted driver, our experienced trial attorneys can help. After more than 30 years of practice, Pope Law knows exactly what must be done to prove a distracted driver’s liability and secure the compensation you deserve.

WHAT DOES DISTRACTED DRIVING MEAN IN NEW JERSEY?

Distracted driving occurs when activity inside the vehicle or the driver’s own lack of focus diverts the driver’s attention from the road, preventing the safe operation of a vehicle. Even the shortest distraction creates an opportunity for an auto accident. Distracted driving is negligent driving and exposes the driver to liability for any injury that results. Common distractions for drivers include:

• Applying makeup
• Changing clothes
• Participating in excited exchanges with passengers
• Talking on a handheld cellphone
• Texting
• Checking phone messages or email
• Taking “selfies”
• Changing CDs or radio stations
• Watching videos
• Eating or drinking
• Shaving
• Reaching for an object
• Typing data into a GPS device
• Loss of temper (road rage)

Studies show that some distractions, such as cellphone use, can impair driving just as much as fatigue and intoxication. Major, catastrophic accidents have occurred due to cellphone use, especially texting by train operators and bus drivers.

NEW JERSEY CELLPHONE LAW

Authorities in New Jersey are so concerned about the distraction that cellphone use creates that they’ve enacted legislation outlawing it. According to New Jersey Traffic Law, Title 39, it is illegal to use a handheld cellphone while driving unless: “(1) The operator has reason to fear for his life or safety, or believes that a criminal act may be perpetrated against himself or another person; or (2) The operator is using the telephone to report to appropriate authorities a fire, a traffic accident, a serious road hazard or medical or hazardous materials emergency, or to report the operator of another motor vehicle who is driving in a reckless, careless or otherwise unsafe manner or who appears to be driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.” A violation may result in a $100 fine. Retain determined representation for your distracted driving accident in NY and NJ Evidence that a driver was distracted can remove all doubt about who was liable for your accident. Pope Law has the knowledge and experience to assemble the evidence that can maximize your claim for compensation. To schedule your free consultation, call (973) 344-4406 or contact our Newark office online.