Several weeks ago we wrote about Florida’s failed texting while driving bill. Thirty-eight states have laws prohibiting texting while driving, but drivers in Florida are still without such protection. Now, the federal government appears ready to take action.
Ray LaHood, U.S. Transportation Secretary, called for a federal law on Thursday to prohibit texting or talking on a cellphone while driving. Last year, 3,000 fatal traffic accidents occurred as a result of distracted driving. According to LaHood, it is important for police in every state to have “the opportunity to write tickets when people are foolishly thinking they can drive safely or use a cellphone and text and drive.”
LaHood compares the situation facing the United States today with the problem of drunk driving 20-40 years ago. And he’s probably right. According to the NHTSA or National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, using a cellphone while behind the wheel delays reaction times by approximately the same amount as having a blood alcohol level of .08, which is the legal limit.
“It used to be that if an officer pulled you over for drunk driving, he would pat you on the back, maybe call you a cab or take you home, but he wouldn’t arrest you,” said LaHood. “Now that has changed, and the same enforcement can work for people who talk on cellphones while driving.”
Our Treasure Coast auto accident attorneys urge all Florida drivers to stay focused while driving.
Florida Car Accident? A Florida Personal Injury Lawyer Can Help
If a distracted driver in Florida has injured if you or someone you love, the law firm of Philip DeBerard, Injury Attorney, can help. We have provided legal assistance to car accident victims in South Florida and the Treasure Coast since 1975.
Call us today at (800) 299-8878 or fill out our convenient online contact form for a free consultation.
