US Government Takes a Closer Look at Texting and Driving
Texting and driving has become an epidemic around the country, and it is one of the most dangerous distractions on the road. Recent studies have found that the reaction time of someone who is texting while driving is reduced by 35%, which is double the 12% reduced reaction time of drunk drivers. Yet despite the inherent risks involved, many people continue to text and drive. A study conducted by AAA found that 50% of drivers between the ages of 18 and 24 text and drive on a regular basis. A handful of states, including Utah, have taken action by enacting laws that prohibit texting while behind the wheel. But now the gravity of the situation has trickled its way up to the White House.
According to KSL News, the White House will hold a summit to address the growing problem of texting and driving, also known as “intexticated” driving. Ray LaHood, the Transportation Secretary, plans to hold a meeting with safety officials, traffic authorities, and law enforcement in September to discuss the growing number of fatalities and crashes due to intexticated driving. Officials of the Utah Highway Patrol are encouraged by the summit, saying it would be a welcome meeting to promote safe driving.
Utah’s ban against texting and driving came into effect on July 1, and troopers have pulled over several motorists in the past month. Troopers are still having trouble identifying texting drivers. While some are obvious about it, others go undetected until after an accident. It is also difficult to determine whether a motorist is texting or scrolling through his/her phonebook to make a call. The UHP says there is a learning curve for troopers. Any little bit helps, however, and we hope this new law will reduce the amount of Utah car accidents and Utah road fatalities.
If you have been injured in an accident due to an intexticated driver, you deserve full compensation for your injuries. Navigating the insurance and legal processes along can be overwhelming, and you may consider hiring an accident attorney. The Salt Lake City, Utah personal injury lawyers at the Christensen Law Firm are well-versed in accident and injury law, and can offer you the experienced legal representation needed to win your settlement. For a free consultation about your legal rights, contact us today at 801.506.0800.
