Washington was the first state in the country to pass a texting while driving ban. That was in 2007. Hand-held cellphone use is also banned. Either is a primary offense, meaning that if an officer sees you holding a phone in your hand while you drive, you can be pulled over and get a ticket. The fine is a mere $124 for the first offense, however, not enough to deter most drivers. If you have been injured in an accident caused by a distracted driver, you may be able to recover substantial compensation for your injuries. Our Seattle accident attorneys can help.
Technology-Based Distractions
Technology-based distractions that have become common on our roads include:
- Texting
- Taking selfies
- Using social media
- GPS use
- Talking on the phone, even hands-free
- Watching videos
More than Devices
Device use has certainly taken distracted driving to a new level, but deadly distractions have been around since automobiles hit the market. These distractions are more difficult to prove because there are no cell phone records involved, but there are other types of evidence that we can use including witness testimony, camera footage, and even on-the-scene admissions by the distracted driver.
Examples of traditional distractions include:
- Talking to passengers
- Tending to children
- Adjusting the stereo
- Adjusting vehicle settings
- Reaching for items in the floorboard or backseat
- Personal grooming
- Reading
- Looking at maps
- Daydreaming
- Rubbernecking
If you believe that a distracted driver caused your accident or the accident that caused the death of someone you love and that accident occurred in the Puget Sound area or anywhere in Washington State, please talk to the Seattle distracted driving accident attorneys of the Budigan Law Firm right away. Call us at (206) 284-5305 or contact us online today to schedule your free initial consultation.
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