Texting while driving has become a major safety issue on Florida’s roads, contributing to a lot of car accidents each year. Texting while driving has become a major safety issue on Florida’s roads, contributing to a significant number of car accidents each year.
Causes of Texting Car Accidents
Texting while driving is one of the most dangerous forms of distracted driving. When a driver takes their eyes off the road to read or send a text message, they’re essentially driving blind. Reading or sending a text takes an average of 4.6 seconds, during which time a car traveling at 55 mph covers the length of a football field.
Texting drivers are 23 times more likely to be involved in a crash than non-texting drivers, and texting reduces a driver’s field of vision by 50%, significantly increasing the risk of missing important visual cues on the road.
Prevalence of Texting Car Accidents in Florida
Florida has seen a troubling increase in texting car accidents in recent years. In 2021, there were over 56,000 distracted driving crashes in Florida, with texting being a major contributor. These crashes resulted in more than 2,700 serious injuries and 333 fatalities. Young drivers, particularly those between 16 and 24 years old, are most likely to be involved in texting car accidents.
Legal Consequences of Texting While Driving in Florida
Florida has taken steps to combat texting while driving. As of July 1, 2019, texting while driving became a primary offense in Florida, meaning law enforcement can stop drivers solely for this violation. First-time offenders face a $30 fine plus court costs, while second-time offenders within 5 years face a $60 fine plus court costs and 3 points on their driver’s license. Texting in school and work zones carries higher penalties, including doubled fines and additional points on the driver’s license.
Impact of Texting Car Accidents
The consequences of texting car accidents extend beyond legal penalties. Victims may suffer physical injuries ranging from minor cuts and bruises to severe, life-altering conditions or even death. The emotional trauma for victims and their families can be significant. Financial burdens including medical bills, lost wages, and increased insurance premiums often follow these accidents. Additionally, at-fault drivers may face potential civil lawsuits.
Preventing Texting Car Accidents
To reduce the risk of texting car accidents, drivers should turn off their phones or put them in “Do Not Disturb” mode while driving. Using apps that block texts and calls while the vehicle is in motion can also be helpful. If communication is necessary, it’s crucial to pull over to a safe location first. Passengers can offer to handle communications for the driver. Educating young drivers about the dangers of texting while driving is also essential in prevention efforts.
What to Do If You’re Involved in a Texting Car Accident
If you’re involved in an accident caused by a texting driver, ensure everyone’s safety and call 911 if there are injuries. Document the scene with photos and gather witness information. Report the accident to your insurance company and consider consulting with a personal injury attorney, especially if there are serious injuries or disputes about the fault.
Texting car accidents are a serious problem in Florida, but they are preventable. By understanding the risks, following the law, and making a conscious effort to avoid distracted driving, we can all contribute to making Florida’s roads safer.
If you’ve been injured in a texting car accident, talk to an Orlando car accident attorney at the Martinez Manglardi personal injury law firm. Call 407-846-2240 for a free consultation. Convenient locations throughout Central Florida. Don’t wait. Call today.
