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Texting and driving still a common activity on the road

Drivers in Pottsville and throughout Pennsylvania are undoubtedly aware of the attempts on the part of law enforcement and the government to tamp down on the number of people who are texting and driving. It is known by now how risky any act that can lead to being a distracted driver is, but that does not mean that drivers are adhering to the law and ceasing the behavior. Understanding the facts behind this behavior is also key.

Statistics have indicated that as many as half of all motorists are not adhering to the law when it comes to texting and driving. Approximately 43 percent of the drivers participating in a survey admitted that they do not care whether there is a law against the behavior or not. While there are laws to stop drivers from doing this with fines and other punishments, research has shown that only one out of every 13 drivers will be stopped by law enforcement for texting and driving. Ninety percent of those who text and drive are not confronted for it. Often, these individuals are not even given a citation.

While there might be the perception that older drivers will exercise greater caution and exhibit a willingness to follow the law, the reality is that older people are more frequently cited for texting and driving. The lowest number of people who were caught texting and driving are those between the ages of 18 and 24. The most common violators are those over age 65.

Companies are implementing technology to allow people to use their smartphones without their hands, but nearly half of the drivers say that they do not use this technology. When there is an auto accident, one of the most important factors to consider is how and why it happened. If it was due to a distracted driver, seeking compensation might hinge on this evidence. Speaking to a legal professional who has experience in accident investigation and pursuing claims due to careless drivers can help with a filing.

Source: Huffington Post, “Texting and Driving: Here’s Why the Problem Won’t Go Away Soon,” William Morrow, Aug. 22, 2016

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