Cell Phone Use While Driving

In today’s fast-paced society, we are all rushing to get somewhere. Multi-tasking is a way of life and the more that is done in the least amount of time the more desirable. Businesses are run, dates are made, dates are broken, appointments are scheduled, friendships are re-kindled, and lives are run from behind a steering wheel. Cell phones have become an indispensible part of our life and along with this necessity the potential for distraction increases. Recent studies have shown that approximately 85% of drivers use their cell phones while driving. This has become such a worrisome problem that some states have banned the use of handheld cell phones while driving. Add to this the increased use of texting and the combination is disastrous. The National Safety Council has found that text messaging while driving is one of the worst things a driver can do and that the risk of getting in an accident is 50% higher. Text messaging involves the use of the eyes, brain and hands; skills one needs while driving. Any time one of these let alone all three are taken of the road this may become the recipe for disaster.

Maryland Law

While legislation is in effect to ban the use of handheld cell phones and text messaging in some states, improving driver education is essential, especially in the 16 to 26 age bracket. If you find it absolutely necessary, a few guidelines should be followed:

• Purchase and use a hands free device such as a Bluetooth or headphones.
• Do not text while driving or attempt to read text while driving
• Make every attempt not to use your phone while in heavy traffic or inclement weather
• Even dialing a phone can be a distraction. Most phones today come with technology that will allow you to voice-dial rather than taking your eyes and hands off the road to dial.
• Only use your phone for necessary calls
  With the advancement in technology of cell phones, from texting, calling and browsing the internet, it is more and more likely that your path will cross with someone distracted from driving by their cell phone.

If you or a loved one is the victim of a negligent driver, please contact our law offices to seek the help of a professional so that you may know your rights.

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