New Bills Target Distracted Driving In Florida
Michael Babboni
Car Accidents
Few people can argue the fact that distracted driving is a serious issue. In fact, studies have found that distracted driving is as big of an issue as drunk driving, and that the risk of an accident occurring is just as high when texting while driving as it is when driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol.It’s already illegal to text and drive in Florida. However, officers can’t pull over motorists just because of their cell phones – they must be pulled over due to another infraction first. However, as the 2019 legislative session approaches, two politicians are already starting to target Florida’s current texting while driving laws.
It’s a bipartisan effort, as Republican Senator Wilton Simpson and Democrat representative Emily Slosberg have each filed bills that toughen up the currently lax law. Under the new proposed laws, reading or even talking on a wireless device while driving will be illegal.
Slosberg references the fact that the number one cause of teen deaths is automobile accidents while proposing this new rule. It follows similar other laws in 17 states that restrict the usage of phones. In short, you can’t be holding your phone while driving. This limits usage only to voice-operated functions like making calls.
It remains to be seen just whether or not either of these new bills will be passed into law, but it has been made a priority of the Senate after several years of failed attempts to restructure the existing laws.
These new laws may also make it easier for those who are injured by distracted drivers to get the compensation that they are owed. Already, distracted driving is clearly considered to be one of the prime examples of ‘reckless or negligent behavior’, and those who can prove that their injuries were the result of this type of behavior have the grounds to file for compensation.
To do so, several tools may need to be used including things like pulling mobile phone records, reviewing accident reports filed by the police, looking a driver history, reviewing security camera footage from the area, and more.
With these new laws, it can be easier to show that the driver was acting in a negligent or reckless manner and may also make it more likely that they will face justice for their actions accordingly. Still, those hurt in an accident of any kind will want to ensure that they have the help of an experienced attorney to help them.
The reason is simple – no matter the cause of the accident it can be difficult to prove that the other person was at fault and also be difficult to show that you deserve restitution in the right amount. Your lawyer will actively work to make sure that you get a settlement that is fair for your situation. Even without these new laws taking effect, those hurt due to distracted drivers will have the grounds to seek compensation so they can receive the financial stability they need to get their lives back.
Our team of legal professionals has spent years helping those hurt in an accident get the compensation that they need. If you’ve been injured in an accident due to a distracted driver – or any other type of accident – our team is here to make sure you get what you’re owed. Contact our office today to learn more about your rights and to get a free consultation to see how we can help you.