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What types of behaviors are considered distractions while driving in California?

Irvine, CA – California has a serious problem with distracted driving. Year after year, it is a leading cause of traffic accidents and fatalities in the state. To understand this phenomenon more completely, it is important to define exactly what distracted driving is, as well as how it contributes to accidents. People who are injured due to distracted drivers can potentially file an insurance claim or bring a personal injury lawsuit against the person responsible with the assistance of a law firm in California.  

The definition of distracted driving

Essentially any activity that takes the driver’s eyes or attention off of the road, even for a brief moment, can be considered distracted driving. Phone use of things like text messages and social media programs has become the main culprit, however there are many other types of distractions that are common in the car. Other forms of technology like stereos, navigation systems, and computers can become distractions as well. Even activities that do not involve any kind of devices such as talking to passengers or eating while driving can become a distraction. The problem is severe enough that various agencies have started campaigns to raise public awareness about the dangers of various kinds of distractions in cars. 

Penalties for distracted driving

As a form of deterrence, the state of California has passed laws to help stop distracted driving and associated accidents. Drivers cannot talk or text on their phones while in the car unless they have a hands free system. However, all drivers under eighteen are absolutely prohibited from phone use while driving, even with a hands free system. There are also exceptions for making emergency calls.

Fines for a first offense are twenty dollars, and any later offense charged to the same driver will cost fifty dollars. Drivers may be cited for other offenses at the same time as well. 

Suing a distracted driver

A driver who is considered to be at fault for an accident may face insurance consequences and lawsuits. If there is evidence of distracted driving, this may be used against the driver responsible in a negligence lawsuit. The victim can contact a local lawyer, then the attorney for the victim can file a complaint to begin the case in the local civil courts. This document will summarize facts related to the time and place of the collision, give arguments as to why the defendant is at fault, and state the victim’s losses or damages.  

Car crash attorneys in California

There are options available for people who need legal assistance after a motor vehicle collision in the Irvine area. Chudleigh Law is a trusted firm that helps accident victims receive compensation for their injuries. 

Firm contact info:

Chudleigh Law P.C.

2372 Morse Ave., Ste. 234, Irvine, CA 92614

949-504-5000

[email protected]

chudleighlaw.com

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