In Virginia and other states throughout the country, the number of traffic fatalities has gone up in recent years. However, legislation passed in Georgia and other states shows that governments are taking the problem seriously. Laws passed in Georgia and Rhode Island prohibit drivers from using their phones while a car is in motion. According to TrueMotion, distracted driving was down in both of those states after hands-free laws were passed.
In Georgia, there was a 22 percent reduction in the amount of texting and app use among drivers in the first month after that state’s law passed. According to the governor of Georgia, reducing traffic fatalities by 20 percent could save 260 people each year. As of September 2018, there was a 14 percent drop in traffic fatalities in Georgia. The results from Georgia’s efforts have increased the amount of interest in other states for similar laws.
According to a representative from Stopdistractions.org, there is a chance that 10 states will pass anti-distracted driving laws. This is true in spite of the fact that some lawmakers are wary of imposing new regulations on those who vote for them. However, making things easier is the fact that most people understand that distracted driving is a problem and that it needs to be solved through government intervention.
Drivers who engage in distracted driving just prior to an accident may be negligent in causing it to happen. Injured victims may be entitled to compensation for their medical bills or other damages incurred in the crash. Those who can’t work after a car crash could pursue compensation for lost wages or lost future earnings. An attorney may be able to gather physical evidence and witness statements on an injured driver’s behalf in order to gain a favorable settlement or jury award.