In 2016, an estimated 40,000 people died in motor vehicle wrecks, with many more suffering serious injuries, according to the National Safety Council (NSC). One of the most common causes of these accidents is distracted driving.
With that in mind, the NSC has declared April Distracted Driving Awareness Month. The goal is to make people aware of the severity of this issue and get drivers to focus on the road instead of using cellphones or engaging in other distractions.
People should “put safety first and Just Drive.”
Driving While Using A Cellphone Is Illegal In California
Not only is using a cellphone while driving a safety hazard, but it is also illegal in California. The state is one of many that have passed laws in an attempt to curtail car accidents caused by distracted driving. Specifically, in California, adult drivers cannot use hand-held cellphones, while drivers under 18 cannot even use hands-free devices. Texting and driving is banned for all California drivers.
What You Can Do
The NSC wants you to pledge to drive cell-free, and you can share that pledge on social media with a variety of graphics available here. You can also simply tell your friends or post about your commitment to not using a cellphone behind the wheel.
The NSC is also asking employers to create clear policies to keep employees from using cellphones and driving. If your employer does not have a policy in place, you may want to bring this option to their attention.
After A Distracted Driving Accident
Unfortunately, distracted driving crashes may still happen. It is important for people to know that if they are the victim of a distracted driver, they may be able to seek compensation for medical bills and other costs through a personal injury claim. An experienced attorney can help injured people seek fair compensation and justice. Victims of these auto accidents should not have to struggle through aftermath on their own.