It seems that when simply looking to the left or right on the road, it is possible to see a driver who is looking down rather than forward. This is generally perceived as a person looking at a device. To prevent the risk, a new law in Florida has recently been put into effect allowing law enforcement to stop vehicles in which the driver is believed to have been distracted.
Now that the new law is in place, texting and driving is a primary offense, meaning officers may pull vehicles over for the sole violation of texting and driving. There are still concerns that the law might not be as impactful in preventing motor vehicle accidents as it is intended. The law says that drivers cannot drive while typing or plugging numbers or any symbols into their device. Nor can they read off the device. Still, if a driver is off to the side of the road or is at a red light, they cannot be cited for distracted driving.
Another important note is that drivers are still legally allowed to talk on the handheld device.
Although it is undeniably positive that Florida is taking steps to make the roads safer by trying to regulate distracted driving and punish drivers for violating the new law, there are many loopholes, including the legality of using a device for GPS, and other excuses drivers might present to excuse their behavior.
With the number of accidents for distracted driving rivaling driving under the influence, recklessness, negligence, and drowsy driving, there will inevitably be distracted motor vehicle accidents. Having proof that a distracted driver caused the crash can be a key aspect of securing compensation for medical costs, lost wages, pain, and suffering and more. A law firm experienced in investigating motor vehicle accidents should be called for guidance in pursuing a claim.
