Car Accidents Caused by Cell Phones and Texting
New Ban on Texting for All Drivers in Pennsylvania
As of March 8, 2012, texting while driving is illegal for all drivers in Pennsylvania. Here are the new laws related to texting while driving:
- Drivers are prohibited from using interactive wireless devices – including cell phones, smartphones, etc. – to text while their vehicle is in motion.
- “Texting” includes writing, sending, and responding to texts and instant messages, e-mails, and any other type of written communication.
- Surfing the web is also illegal while the vehicle is in motion.
- The law bans drivers from using wireless Bluetooth accessories, as these can be paired with some phone applications to read and write text messages. However, cars with wireless integrated phone systems are excluded from the law.
- Texting while driving is now a primary offense, which means police officers can pull over any driver suspected of texting while driving, even if they are not violating any other traffic laws. Drivers who are caught texting while driving will be fined $50 for each offense.
New teen driver laws already took effect.
Our Attorneys Support Hands-Free Devices and Safe Driving
Statistics prove that it’s a fact – text messaging while driving is the most dangerous cell phone-related activity on the road. That’s why our attorneys at Edgar Snyder & Associates urge you to use cell phones responsibly, for your safety and the safety of others on the roadway.
If you’ve been the innocent victim of a car accident that was caused or made worse by another driver’s cell phone use, contact our attorneys right away. We can be reached 24/7 at 1-866-9-4EDGAR or right here at our website through our free legal evaluation.
Federal Ban on Texting for Truck and Bus Drivers
As of January 26, 2010, all commercial vehicle drivers in the United States are banned from text messaging and using hand-held cell phones while driving.
The Department of Transportation (DOT) defines a commercial motor vehicle (CMV) as any vehicle that is:
- 10,001 pounds or more
- Transporting hazardous materials
- Designed or used to carry 9 or more people, including the driver, for compensation
- Designed or used to carry 16 or more people, including the driver, not for compensation
This texting and hand-held restriction was ordered directly by the DOT and affects truckers and bus drivers across the country. Those who violate this federal ban on texting may be subject to fines up to $2,750.
Hurt in an Accident Caused by Cell Phone Use or Texting?
Do you believe your car accident was the result of a distracted driver who was more concerned with their cell phone than the roadway? Our cell phone accident law firm can help you get the compensation you deserve for your injuries. Get started right now by taking advantage of our free legal evaluation.
