Distracted driving is a leading public safety issue in the U.S., ranking higher in annual car accident fatalities than speeding or even drunk driving. Every day, an estimated nine lives are lost and 1,153 people are injured in crashes involving a distracted driver, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
Distracted Driving Overview
Distracted driving is defined as any activity that takes a driver’s attention away from the primary task of driving. Distractions may include:
- Texting
- Using a cell phone or smartphone
- Manipulating other handheld devices, such as an mp3 player or GPS
- Eating or drinking
- Using in-vehicle technologies, such as navigation systems
- Talking to passengers
- Adjusting radio or climate controls
- Reading, including maps
- Personal grooming
Because text messaging requires visual, manual, and cognitive attention from the driver, it is easily the most dangerous activity one can perform behind the wheel, increasing a driver’s odds of crashing by 23 times. A driver reading or composing a text message typically takes their eyes off the road for five seconds. When travelling at a speed of 55 mph, that is equivalent to driving the length of a football field blindfolded.
Distracted Driving Puts Everyone at Risk
Teenagers have the highest proportion of distracted driving accidents, and account for approximately 11% of distracted driving fatalities, according to the Insurance Institute of Highway Safety. In a survey conducted by AT&T, 97% of teens agreed that texting while driving was dangerous; and yet, 43% admit they do it anyway.
While younger drivers make up the highest percentage of distracted driving accidents, the issue is not confined to young, inexperienced drivers. Studies have shown that drivers of all ages engage in this dangerous habit, and older drivers who text behind the wheel may be at even greater risk of causing a car accident, according to a study conducted by researchers at Wayne State University.
State Texting Bans
Several lawmakers and safety advocacy groups have launched campaigns aimed at minimizing the number of distracted driving fatalities on U.S. roads. Fourteen states, plus the District of Colombia, have banned the use of handheld devices for all drivers. These states, which include New Jersey and Pennsylvania, have made using a handheld device a primary offense, meaning the officer can pull a driver over and issue a ticket without any other traffic offense taking place. Forty-four states and D.C. have a ban on text messaging for all drivers.
Studies have shown that these laws do seem to be effective – but only under certain circumstances. Preliminary research has indicated that states with stricter laws, higher rates of enforcement and with more severe penalties are more effective in deterring drivers from engaging in this dangerous behavior.
Proving Negligence in a Distracted Driving Case
Distracted driving can lead to car accidents, property damage, car accident injuries and wrongful death. All drivers have a legal duty of care to drive responsibly. When a driver chooses to engage in activities that divert his attention away from the primary function of driving, it is considered an act of negligence. Negligent drivers can be held liable for all losses incurred by car accident victims. In order for victims to recover financial compensation, they must first prove that the other driver’s negligent behavior caused the accident.
Evidence of Distracted Driving May Include:
- Admission from the driver
- Testimony of witnesses who say the driver was not paying attention
- Cell phone, text, or email records
- Video evidence from surveillance or police dashboard cameras, or pedestrian cell phone video
- Analysis of skid marks, or lack of skid marks indicating the driver did not brake
Car Accident Attorneys Obtain Compensation For Injuries Caused by Distracted Drivers
If you or a loved one has been seriously injured or killed in a car accident caused by a distracted driver, South Jersey car accident lawyersof Grungo Colarulo can help. Our legal team of experienced South Jersey personal injury lawyers have successfully obtained over $75 million in verdicts and settlements for our clients in South Jersey and Philadelphia.
To discuss your case with one of our knowledgeable and highly skilled South Jersey car accident lawyers, contact us online or call 877-679-7772 today to schedule your no-cost consultation. Our offices in Cherry Hill, New Jersey and Philadelphia allow us to represent personal injury victims throughout South Jersey.
Testimonials
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This team is incredible. They are friendly and knowledgeable. I appreciate everything they have done for me and would recommend them to anyone. Overall great experience
Testimonial from Paul D. -
My case settled recently after lasting 4 years. Grungo and Colarulo’s law firm were able to secure a large settlement award for my slip and fall accident. This money will help secure my future for the permanent injury I received as a result of the slip and fall. Everyone was very caring, and kept me informed throughout the entire process. Christine Lafferty is an excellent litigation lawyer. I highly recommend using them if you have been injured or in an accident. I hope I am never in a situation again to need their services, but I know who to go to if I, or any of my family members are ever injured. Thanks Grungo and Colarulo and staff for your compassionate service!
Testimonial from Pamela A. -
Thank you so much Grungo and Colarulo for helping me with my case. Special thanks to Erica Domingo, Esquire and her team. Erica Domingo and her team was very nice and helped me tremendously throughout my case like more than one year and half. They gave me the right advice and guided me through every step of my case. They gave me prompt and clear responses to all my questions. In addition, Erica and her team provided me with all the what if scenarios so that I can have a clear vison of the steps ahead.
I would definitely recommend Grungo and Colarulo.
Thanks again Erica Domingo, Esquire and her team
Testimonial from Ahmed A. -
My wife and I reached out to Grungo Colarulo in 2020 for advise on a legal matter. After a meeting with the Attorney and Paralegal, we decided to go forward with a case. This case required a lot of documentation, and expert review of the documentation which was aquired. Throughout the process, we were kept up to date monthly, and Grungo Colarulo was always responsive to any questions that we had. The entire staff at Grungo Colarulo are very professional, caring, and willing to go the extra mile. This firm is a definite recommend!
Testimonial from Patrick G. -
I left five (5) stars only because that’s as many as I could leave. If I could, I would have left 100 stars. Bob & Christine are the absolute best! My settlement far exceeded what I ever imagined. They are professional, friendly, and really listened to what I had to say. They kept me up to date with the progress of my case every step of the way. I can’t recommend them highly enough.
Testimonial from Sheila L. -
Very professional, communicates well, makes me feel like they have my best interest at heart, and overall just a great company. Christine and the whole team has been on top of everything. Would definitely recommend!! 10/10
Testimonial from Michael M. -
First and foremost I would like to thank the whole team at Grungo Colarulo!! In addition to that, Stephanie & Riley & Drenna have done such an outstanding job taking care of me in such a difficult and low point of my life. I was in a bad car accident & did not know how to move forward with what to do and how to process. Those ladies were there every step, every inch, every mile & beyond with helping me when I had no idea how to navigate. I will forever be thankful for them and for the outcome of my case! If you ever need assistance I highly recommend this practice!!! Beyond professional, helpful, precise, caring, knowledgeable & humble!!!
Testimonial from Rachel F. -
From my first phone call to the end of my case this firm was on the ball!! Always responsive and professional and kept me up to date and informed. This is my firm for any future needs!
Testimonial from Jeffrey F. -
This was my first time ever having to have a lawyer for an automobile accident. From the beginning they took care of everything. They put me at ease so I could concentrate on my medical needs. Everyone I spoke to during the process were always extremely pleasant and knowledgeable.
Thank you to Grungo Colarulo for representing me and getting the settlement you did to help me move forward. I would highly recommend Grungo Colarulo to anyone who wants outstanding legal representation.Testimonial from Pat G. -
This team has been nothing but gentle an generous. Being as this was my first time dealing with a worker’s compensation case I was lost and nervous. But the Grungo Colarulo team has made me feel as comfortable as possible. My needs were addressed with care in a timely fashion. I knew what was going on every step of the way.
Oh, did I mention, WE WON …This teams knowledge of the industry is TOP NOTCH!
Testimonial from Aminah M. -
A dear family friend referred us to a young attorney named Rich Grungo, Jr. We wanted answers and if necessary, justice for our father. From day one of a five-year journey, Mr. Rich Grungo, Jr. made our family and our pain his own. The man never stopped working for us. He kept us informed every step of the way. Questions were answered quickly and with great compassion and expertise. Even though Rich was always busy, he was never too busy for us. We always felt like we were his only clients
Testimonial from Mickey -
I had the opportunity to observe Mr. Grungo work in this case, both in the courtroom on the technical matters of the motions and also as his presentation to the jury in opening and presenting witnesses as well as utilizing animations… and drawings and films that were necessary for a proper understanding of the case…At all times during the presentation, Mr. Grungo operated mostly without notes and questioned the witnesses in a conversational manner which made it most effective. **
New Jersey Superior Court Judge Testimonial -
Thank you for everything. I honestly felt like you treated my son like he was your own son, for that I am grateful. I would recommend your services to anyone. Thanks for being so awesome to both of us.
Testimonial from HD -
It was a pleasure working with Bill. He constantly kept me informed. I would recommend Bill and his firm to anybody I know. They’ll be in good hands.
Testimonial from Gregory -
I had the opportunity to retain Mr. Colarulo for a vehicle accident I encountered. I give him my highest recommendation for anyone in need of an excellent Personal Injury Attorney. Not only does he have an in depth knowledge of the legal field, but he emanates a sense of trust-worthiness that makes you feel secure during the entire process. Mr. Colarulo has the knowledge, drive and enthusiasm that will get the job done for you. He comes highly recommended.
Testimonial from Denise -
Hi Rich, Well I’m on my way up to college to finish packing my son’s stuff up and to go to his Graduation tomorrow. It’s hard to believe how fast and how slow, at the same time 5 years can go by. I was just thinking of you as I am getting ready to leave and wanted to thank you once again for everything you have done for my son’s future. You are a good and just man. God Bless to you and your family.
Be Well,
Testimonial from Bob
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