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Mobile Devices behind the Wheel: A Guide to Phone Use by Florida Drivers
Distracted driving on Florida roads can create a danger for all drivers. Although using a mobile phone while driving is not illegal in Florida, there are steps that you can take, as a driver, to safely use your cell phone.
January 29, 2012 /Womens Interest PR News/ -- Laws restricting cellular phone use by drivers have the swept the country in recent years. To date, 34 states ban text messaging for all drivers; four states' texting bans went into effect in 2011 alone. In addition, 9 states prohibit all handheld cell phone use, whether for talking or texting.
The proliferation of laws limiting the use of electronic mobile devices behind the wheel reflects a growing concern about the dangers of distracted driving. In Florida, there are currently no laws that prohibit drivers from texting or talking on a mobile phone. Even so, texting and cell phone related accidents can result in injury, death and hefty claims in civil court - everyone on the road has a responsibility to other commuters to drive cautiously. Drivers who violate other rules of the road as a result of inattention may also face criminal penalties arising out of those offenses. Without a doubt, safety tips for phone use in the car can benefit all drivers.
Recommendations for Safe Phone Use from the Florida Highway Patrol
They won't pull you over for it -- yet -- but the Florida Highway Patrol does have some suggestions for using your phone behind the wheel. And, as a nationally acclaimed law enforcement organization that sees the direct impacts of distracted driving on a daily basis, you can rest assured they have the experience to back up their advice.
First and foremost, while on the highway, driving should be your number one priority. If you receive a call at an inopportune time when it may be a distraction, just let it ring. You can always return the call or check your voicemail later.
Part of the focus on driving is keeping your eyes where they need to be: on the road. Taking your eyes off the road, even for a moment, can have disastrous consequences. If you have to dial a number while driving, use speed dial, or wait until you are fully stopped at a red light or stop sign. You should also wait to view or send texts until your vehicle is no longer in motion (at a light, in a traffic jam, etc.). It is helpful to become familiar with the feel of your phone's buttons - if you know the buttons by touch, you should not have to look away from the road to accept or place a call.
Planning ahead is imperative. You can prepare for expected calls by keeping numbers handy or entering them into your speed dial before getting behind the wheel. Store your phone in an accessible, easy-to-reach place within your vehicle. If possible, consider installing a hands-free device.
Talking on a cell phone while driving is best reserved for emergencies or for quick, important calls that cannot wait. Lengthy, complicated and in-depth conversations are a proven source of driver distraction, as are particularly stressful or emotional discussions. Put these conversations off until you are done driving and can give them the full attention they deserve.
Above all else, rely on your common sense when deciding how to use your phone in the car. If you encounter severe weather, heavy traffic, road construction or any other dangerous roadway conditions, put your phone away.
Possible Florida Legal Consequences for Drivers Who Talk or Text
In 2011, at least nine bills relating to cell phone use and texting by drivers were considered by the Florida legislature. All failed to make it into law. Four distracted driving bills have already been filed for the 2012 legislative session, with more likely to follow. For the time being, however, it remains legal to text or talk behind the wheel in Florida.
Of course, the fact that talking and texting while driving is legal does not mean it has no consequences. There is the obvious potential for injury, property damage or even death when phone use causes an accident. Drivers may speed, run stop signs or commit any number of other traffic infractions because of cell phone distraction, and they can be ticketed for these offenses. When a driver's negligent use of a phone causes injury to another motorist or a pedestrian, the driver may be sued for money damages.
If you have been injured in an accident involving distracted driving, or if a family member has been killed, an experienced Tampa personal injury attorney can help you get the compensation to which you are entitled. In addition, by holding irresponsible drivers accountable for their oversights, you will be making the roads safer for everyone. Get in touch with a car accident lawyer today to learn more about your legal options.
Article provided by Fiol Law Group
Visit us at www.advocatesforyou.com
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