At Roberts & Harris PC, our Raleigh car accident attorneys know that using a cellphone while driving is illegal in North Carolina. However, it is nearly impossible to pass another driver on our roadways without seeing someone staring down at their phone, or worse — texting, looking for directions, or engaging in video calls.
While many North Carolina residents may believe that sending a quick text message behind the wheel is harmless, studies show doing so slows driver reactions by 35%. Alcohol impairment, up to a blood alcohol content of .08 — the legal limit of intoxication — slows reactions by 12%. Despite the disparity in percentages, neither action is okay. Both are negligent, and can and do lead to serious vehicle collisions, injuries, and fatalities throughout the state.
If you or someone you love has been hurt or lost their life to a preventable traffic collision caused by negligence, our personal injury attorneys want to allow you to seek justice by ensuring your story is told. Contact us today to learn more.
More Disturbing Facts About Distracted Driving
Every year, distracted drivers account for approximately 2.5 million car crashes worldwide. These crashes are more than the result of drivers taking their eyes off the road. Studies show, the brain needs 13 seconds to refocus after cellphone use, which means the driver is distracted for much longer than it takes to dial, text, or search a location.
While distracted driving consists of any non-driving activity that increases the risk of car accidents, including eating, drinking, grooming, changing radio stations, using a GPS, or talking to other passengers, cellphones and texting are one of the most common driver distractions.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reported that last year, distracted driving was responsible for:
- 13% of all police-reported motor vehicle crashes
- 14% of all injury crashes, injuring approximately 325,000
- 8% of all fatal crashes, killing 3,142 people
Other motorists are not the only ones in jeopardy when someone drives distracted. The NHTSA also reported nearly 600 non-vehicle occupants were killed in collisions caused by distracted drivers, including pedestrians and bicyclists.
If you or someone you love was injured or killed in a collision with a distracted or otherwise negligent driver in North Carolina, we can help you pursue the liable party for your full financial recovery.
Contact Our Experienced Motor Vehicle Accident Attorneys in Raleigh, North Carolina
Contact our skilled Raleigh auto accident lawyers at Roberts & Harris PC today at 919-249-5006 or online to learn how we can help provide exceptional legal solutions for your unique needs today. Contact our Raleigh personal injury lawyers for more legal help.