Connecticut drivers have never had as many distractions as they do today. Despite modern safety features, today’s cars are also equipped with infotainment systems that can create visual, auditory and manual distractions. However, the most dangerous modern day driving distraction is texting.
Texting while driving is illegal
Like many other states, Connecticut has made it illegal to text and drive. Smartphones should be kept out of reach of the driver to avoid the temptation to send or receive texts. Although talking on a voice-controlled phone system can be distracting, it is not nearly as dangerous as sending or receiving a text.
A driver who sends or receives a text message must take at least one hand off the wheel while taking their eyes off the road. Taking your eyes off the road for even a few seconds while traveling at a high speed is like moving across an entire football field with your eyes closed. Thinking about the text or feeling a strong emotion about the text creates another layer of distraction.
Proving a driver was texting
Many motor vehicle accidents happen because drivers were texting while they were driving. However, not every at-fault driver is willing to admit that they were engaging in illegal behavior. If you were involved in an accident with a distracted driver, you may be able to prove that they were texting by obtaining their cellphone records.
Compensation for injured car accident victims
Victims of distracted driving accidents may pursue compensation for their physical, mental and financial damages. If the distracted driver was 100% at fault, they may be ordered to pay for 100% of the damages. In other cases, a distracted driver may only have to pay part of the damages if they were partially at fault.
