Distracted driving has become more common with the rise of cell phone use while individuals are operating motor vehicles. In 2013, over 3,000 people were killed in distracted driving cases – and those were just confirmed cases of distracted driving.
Distracted driving does not just have to be due to mobile phone use. It can also occur while someone is talking to another person in the car, smoking, eating, applying makeup, or even driving while drunk or under the influence of drugs.
With the vacation season approaching, distracted driving will become even more prevalent. Young adults will be home from college, and older high-schoolers will be out of school and on the roads.
Statistics show that young adults have a higher incidence of distracted driving – most likely because they do not comprehend the problems that can come from distracted driving. Even those young adults and teenagers who are aware of the consequences may fall victim to the belief that those consequences simply cannot happen to them.
Distracted Driving Accidents
A distracted driving accident can often be more dangerous and damaging than one involving alcohol or drugs. While many states have enacted laws to discourage distracted driving, such as hefty fines and many points on a driver’s license if caught, the problem still exists.
In Nevada, being caught driving while distracted can mean:
- A $50 fine for a first offense
- $100 for a second offense
- $250 for a third and each subsequent offense
Fines can also be doubled if the distracted driving offense occurs in a work zone. Talking on a hands-free device in Nevada does not count as distracted driving, and you will not be charged under the law if you engage in this activity while driving – through having full focus on the road is always advisable.
Consult a Personal Injury Attorney
If you, or a loved one, have been in an accident that was likely caused by distracted driving, it is important to consult an experienced personal injury attorney who can assist you in putting together a strong, persuasive case for a judge or jury. If the claim is so strong that the other side really has no evidence to rebut the claim or defend against it, you or your loved one may be able to avoid a trial altogether.
The personal injury attorneys at Bertoldo Carter Smith & Cullen have years of experience handling distracted driving cases, and we fight tirelessly to uphold the rights of our clients who have been harmed by this dangerous, uprising trend.
For an initial consultation, we welcome your call to our office at (702) 505-8115.