Nearly 300 people died in Florida car crashes related to distracted driving last year, according to new data from state officials.
The tally is roughly unchanged from the previous year, the data from Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles show. Another 2,200 people were seriously injured in distracted driving accidents.
“When you engage in a distraction while behind the wheel, even briefly, you put your life and others’ on the roadway in danger,” Dave Kerner, FLHMSV’s executive director, said in a statement announcing the new figures. “No matter how important a text, call, or other distraction may be, it can wait. Your primary focus should be ensuring you and your passengers arrive at your destination safely.”
Distraction refers broadly to anything that takes a driver’s eyes or focus off of the road. Using cell phones to make calls and send texts is among the most common forms of distraction. Others include eating and drinking, engaging with passengers, and fiddling with navigation systems. These distractions make it harder for drivers to react promptly to traffic.
A Florida law that went into effect in July 2019 generally bans texting and driving. The law also prohibits the use of any handheld device - whether it is texting or calling - in school and work zones. Violations are treated as non-criminal traffic infractions.
Florida drivers are also generally required to operate their vehicles in a reasonably safe manner. A driver who causes an accident while violating the distracted driving laws is likely to be deemed negligent and responsible for any injuries that result.
Legal Rights for People Injured in Florida Car Accidents
Anyone who is injured in a car accident in Florida has the right to seek compensation from those responsible for the crash. That includes negligent drivers - and their employers, in some cases - as well as insurers.
The money damages available in these cases is designed to put the injured person back in the financial position that he or she was in before the collision. Compensation for current and future medical expenses, missed wages while recuperating and long-term impact on the person’s ability to make a living are all on the table.
Certain family members of a person who is killed in a car crash can also ensure that those responsible are made accountable for their actions by suing for wrongful death. The compensation available in these cases includes money for the loss of the deceased person’s earnings and companionship, as well as for mental anguish and suffering, medical and funeral expenses.
Speak With a Villages Accident Attorney
If you or a loved one has been injured in a distracted driving or other traffic accident, it is important to seek the advice of an experienced injury attorney. Villages accident attorney Tim Babiarz has been fighting for people and families across the community for more than two decades.
Our office is conveniently located in the Villages. We are also proud to represent clients throughout the area, including in Ocala, Leesburg, Lady Lake, Wildwood, Summerfield and beyond. Call (352) 205-7559 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation with a Villages accident attorney.
