At least 1 out of 4 accidents occur in the U.S. from texting and driving, with nearly 390,000 injuries arising from drivers utilizing their phones while driving. Distracted driving or reckless driving is the number one cause of most accidents in California. If you are a victim of a car accident, it is a very confusing and frightening experience. At Kirakosian Law, our personal injury attorneys are here to assist you during and help manage your personal injury case for injury due to a distracted or reckless driving lawsuit. If you would like to know more about our expertise, this article will break down what to do if you are a victim of a distracted driving accident in California.
Is There a Distracted Driving California Law Specifically?
Yes, there is a distracted driving law in California. California Vehicle Code Sec. 23123 states:
“A person shall not drive a motor vehicle while using a wireless telephone unless that telephone is specifically designed and configured to allow hands-free listening and talking, and is used in that manner while driving.”
Originally, a violation would lead to:
- a base fine of $20 for a first offense
- a base fine of $50 for every infraction onwards
Statewide agencies, however, have since stepped up fines and a distracted driving fine can get you a ticket that’s up to $162.
The exception to this law applies only to emergency services professionals, approved school bus or transit vehicles or someone who is driving on their own private property. There’s more, however, to distracted driving California laws.
No teen 18 years or younger can use an electronic device AT ALL, even if it is hands-free. Things have changed since then with the passing of a new law.
What is the new California AB 47 (California Assembly Bill 47) Law and how is it related to distracted driving?
The California Highway Patrol released a press release stating exactly this at the end of 2021. It stated that, as of July 1, 2021, if a driver gets a second violation of the hands-free law within 36 months of an earlier conviction for the same offense, he or she will receive a point on their driving record.
That means that distracted driving California laws are even more costly now because on top of the fines, a point may mean higher insurance and risk of a suspended license. Without a doubt, distracted driving California laws are targeting to reduce accidents that are caused by drivers who neglect road safety for themselves and their fellow drivers.
California’s Number One Driving Distraction
Statistics show 93% of Americans confess to talking on the phone while driving, in addition to 67% admitting to sending a text or checking social notifications. Using your phone while operating a vehicle in California is illegal and subject to grave consequences, including arrests or jail time. Suppose you are a victim of distracted driving in California. In that case, it may be in your best interest to speak with one of our California car accident attorneys at Kirakosian Law APC to start your claim today. Our attorneys can help you receive compensation for law breachers at fault.
Types of People Most at Risk for Distracted Driving
A study revealed that Millennials and Gen Z young adults are prone to using their phones while driving, potentially causing a fatal accident. At least 79% of Millennials and Gen Z admit cell phone usage while operating a vehicle, with baby boomers not too far behind in the 70th percentile. Residents living in highly populated areas are most at risk of becoming victims; cities like Los Angeles, Pasadena, Glendale, and more are focal points for car accident injuries. At Kirakosian Law APC, we have many locations in California. We can offer representation whether you live in L.A. or neighboring cities, including but not limited to areas in Coachella Valley like Palm Desert and Cathedral City.
Types of People Most at Risk for Distracted Driving
A study revealed that Millennials and Gen Z young adults are prone to using their phones while driving, potentially causing a fatal accident. At least 79% of Millennials and Gen Z admit cell phone usage while operating a vehicle, with baby boomers not too far behind in the 70th percentile. Residents living in highly populated areas are most at risk of becoming victims; cities like Los Angeles, Pasadena, Glendale, and more are focal points for car accident injuries. At Kirakosian Law APC, we have many locations in California. We can offer representation whether you live in L.A. or neighboring cities, including but not limited to areas in Coachella Valley like Palm Desert and Cathedral City.
How a California Personal Injury Lawyer Can Help
Our California car accident attorneys are equipped to handle distracted driving cases where the opposing party may deny their actions that caused the initial accident. Our firm of aggressive attorneys is here to speak and negotiate on your behalf for the highest rate of compensation you deserve. Do not let the unexpected tragedy of distracted driving leave you a helpless victim if you are not at fault. A knowledgeable personal injury lawyer is essential to avoid false step or incriminating statements. Enjoy access to a top legal team that will advise you every step of the way. We represent many areas in California, from Bakersfield, Los Angeles, Fresno, and more.
Common Personal Injury Claim Resolutions
Your California personal injury attorney can help you receive compensation for the physical, mental, and emotional harm you’ve faced as a result of your accident. By the duty of care driving law in California, drivers are required to operate motor vehicles as a courtesy to one another safely, and any violation of this law results in a breach of contract. This breach is subject to financial awards in the victim’s favor to compensate for their suffering. Your California personal injury attorney can request compensation on your behalf for the following costs, which include:
- Loss of wages
- Loss of life and wrongful death
- Loss of normal functioning
- Pain, suffering, and grievances
- Rehabilitation
- Medical Costs
The Best Ways To Prevent Distracted Driving Accidents In California
As a driver, caution is vital when navigating the local roads and high-speed highways. To avoid becoming a distracted driving victim or being at fault for an accident, follow these driving guidelines:
-Always buckle up before leaving.
-Put the phone down; whatever message or notification you have can wait till later.
-Put your phone on silent or do not disturb; this will keep your focus on the road.
-Utilize your phone’s vocal command features instead of keeping it in hand
-Do not drive too fast or exceed the speed limits; those limits are in place for a reason.
Get In Touch With a Reckless Driving Accident Lawyer in California
Don’t let distracted driving affect your livelihood. After an accident, many opposing sides like insurance companies and the malicious plaintiff’s team aim to exploit your situation and milk your expenses dry. These groups are not looking out for your well-being, making it imperative to have an aggressive attorney that will negotiate and fight for the justice and compensation you deserve. If you are a victim of a reckless driving accident in California, our Kirakosian Law APC personal injury attorneys will get you the best results for your reckless driving case. We specialize in personal injury lawsuits, among others, including work injuries and workers compensation claims delivering a straightforward litigation process with no upfront retainer fees. With over $35 million in lawsuit settlements, we will represent you to the highest extent leaving you to rest easy. At the same time, we tackle intimidating questions or rebuttals from insurance corporations with an exploitative plan. Contact one of our many Kirakosian Law office locations, including Burbank, Fresno, Bakersfield, Glendale, and many more regions. Work with a team that cares. Call us today for a case evolution to learn more about your options.