Thursday, July 13, 2017

Legal Dangers of Texting & Driving

With the growing popularity in smart phones comes an increase in using such devices all hours of the day… including the time spent behind the wheel. Whether it’s to send a quick email or check a new text message that came in, many cell phone owners are using their device when driving. While it may seem like you aren’t looking away from the road for very long, many dangers can arise in just seconds on the roadways.




While the state of Missouri only has a ban on texting and driving for drivers under the age of 21, there are still legal dangers that can arise from distracted driving. If you were to cause an accident and/or injury someone due to negligent or distracted driving, you could be facing steep consequences for your actions. Our Lake of the Ozarks law firm can help represent your case, whether you have been at fault or suffered from the negligence of a distracted driver.


Texting & Driving Statistics

- 660,000 is the approximate number of drivers who use their cell phones during the daylight hours.
- The average time the eyes leave the road to read a text message is 5 seconds – that’s about 100 yards if you are traveling 55 miles per hour.
- A driver is 23 times MORE likely to be involved in an accident if they text while operating a vehicle.
- Teenage drivers who text spend about 10% of their drive time OUTSIDE their lane on the roadway.
- 1/5 drivers admit to surfing the web, while driving a vehicle.

Why Is Texting SO Distracting?

Texting takes visual, cognitive, AND manual attention – all at the same time. When you mix this combination with operating a vehicle, the eyes, mind, and hands cannot focus on both at the same time. While it may only seem that a driver looks away for a second to read a text, driving conditions can change in less than a second – delaying the driver’s reaction.


Legal Dangers You May Face

Although there is no law banning texting and driving for adults over the age of 21 in the state of Missouri, there are plenty of legal dangers for partaking in such a dangerous activity. If someone is injured due to your negligence while operating a vehicle, you may face a wide range of penalties – including the risk of being sued. On the opposite side of things, if you are injured due to someone else texting and driving, it’s important to know your rights. A lawyer who specializes in personal injury can help represent your claim, if you’re involved in a texting and driving situation.


Seek Legal Representation

Our law firm at the Lake of the Ozarks, encourages you to put the phone down while operating a motor vehicle. Distracted driving can present a number of legal dangers. If you are unfortunately involved with a texting and driving accident, Gibbons Law Firm can help you present your case. As a personal injury lawyer at the Lake of the Ozarks, our lawyer can help to guide you through the legal process. For a FREE consultation for your personal injury case in mid-Missouri, set up an appointment with us today!


Remember, your initial consultation with Gibbons Law Firm is always free.




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Gibbons Law Firm
2820 Bagnell Dam Blvd, Suite B4
Lake Ozark, MO 65049
(573) 348-2211

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