On April 13, the Louisiana Highway Safety Commission issued a public statement about distracted driving to remind everyone that April is Distracted Driving Awareness Month. During the month of April, highway safety officials in Louisiana make a concerted effort to cut down on distracted driving accidents by warning drivers about the risks of using a cell phone while they are behind the wheel.
National statistics on distracted driving accidents that were gathered by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration show that 16 percent of all traffic crashes in the United States are caused by distraction. In 2013, there were 3,154 people killed in car accidents that involved a distracted driver. During the same period, 424,000 people were injured in distracted-driving accidents.
In Louisiana, it is against the law to text or view social media while operating a motor vehicle. It is also unlawful to use any kind of wireless device while traveling in a school zone during posted hours. Despite these laws, the executive director of the LHSC pointed out that it is very easy to spot people at intersections who are looking down at their phones. He recommended that drivers turn off their electronic devices before starting their vehicles.
A person who has been involved in a car crash that was caused by a distracted driver might want to speak with a lawyer. A lawyer may be able to help a car accident victim who was not at fault claim an award for damages from the liable party’s insurance provider. If the liable party’s insurer has denied a victim’s claim, a lawyer may be able to help dispute this decision.
Source: WVUE, “Safety officials remind public of ‘Distracted Driving Awareness Month’” April 14, 2015
