Distractions are rampant in today’s world. Smartphones, GPS devices, built-in vehicle features, and a variety of other electronic gadgets compete for our attention constantly. Unfortunately, there is sometimes a temptation to use these types of devices while driving. Therefore, it’s not surprising that distracted driving accidents are on the rise worldwide. Fortunately, by taking a few simple precautions, it’s possible to lower your risk of being involved in a distracted driving accident. In this article, we discuss common distractions that cause accidents.
Distracted Driving Statistics
According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, there were 414 fatalities caused by distracted driving in the state between 2019 and 2023. In addition, recent data from AT&T suggests that approximately 9 in 10 people engage in some level of smartphone use while behind the wheel.
Missouri’s Texting While Driving Laws
In 2023, a law went into effect in the state of Missouri making it illegal to text with or hold a cell phone while driving. Initially, this law only affected drivers under 21 years of age. However, the law now applies to drivers of all ages. Not only does this law prohibit drivers from holding a phone while driving, but it also prohibits physically supporting a phone with any part of one’s body while operating a vehicle.
Penalties for Texting and Driving
As of January 1, 2025, Missouri will start issuing citations to drivers who are caught using a cell phone or electronic device while driving. Penalties for violating this law range from a fine of between $150 and $500 and up to seven years of incarceration for a violation that results in a fatal crash.
Common Causes of Distracted Driving
Common causes of distracted driving include:
- Cellphones
- Daydreaming
- Rubbernecking
- Stereo use
- GPS use
- Thermostat use
- Adjusting mirrors or positions
- Passengers
- Eating
- Drinking
- Smoking
Proving a Personal Injury Claim for Distracted Driving
If you’ve been hurt in an accident with a distracted driver in Missouri, you may file a personal injury claim to recover financial compensation for lost income, medical expenses, property damage, and emotional suffering. To succeed in a personal injury lawsuit for distracted driving, you must:
- Demonstrate that the other driver’s distraction caused the accident
- Provide evidence, such as police reports, accident reconstructions, phone records, eyewitness testimony, or surveillance footage
In addition, Missouri adheres to a system of pure comparative fault, which allows injury victims to recover financial compensation even when they are partially to blame for an accident. However, under this rule, an injured party who is partially responsible for causing an accident will have his or her damages reduced in proportion to his or her level of fault.
Contact a Car Accident Attorney
If you have been injured in a car accident, you need a knowledgeable car accident attorney in your corner. At Privette Law Office, we understand how difficult it can be to navigate life after a serious car accident. Therefore, when you come to us for assistance with your car accident claim, we will work diligently to obtain compensation on your behalf. Please contact us today to arrange a consultation with an experienced car accident attorney.