Ocala Distracted Driving Accident Attorney
When you are behind the wheel, your sole focus should be on the road. When you are texting, reading, tending to pets or children, or doing other things besides focusing on your driving, you are putting your life and the lives of others at risk. This is called distracted driving and it is a major cause of car accidents. Thousands of people in the United States are killed by distracted driving every year, with many others injured. If you have been involved in this type of accident, contact an Ocala distracted driving accidents attorney who can help you obtain the compensation you deserve.
Florida Distracted Driving Laws
Under Florida Statutes, Section 316.305, a person may not operate a motor vehicle while manually typing letters, numbers, or symbols into a cell phone or wireless communications device. Law enforcement officials are allowed to issue citations to motorists who are texting, instant messaging, or sending emails while driving.
The fine for a first offense is $30, with no points assessed against the driver license. This is considered a non-moving violation. For a second offense within five years, a motorist will be charged with a moving traffic violation and fined $60. The driver will have 3 points assessed against their license. When any offense occurs in a school zone and work zone, it is considered
a moving traffic violation. The driver will be fined $60, with 3 points assessed against their license.
Types of Distracted Driving
While texting and driving is considered the most common type—and most deadly—type of distracted driving, it’s not the only one. There are several main types of distracted driving:
- Visual distractions. These occur when a driver takes their eyes off the road. This can occur when someone is looking at their phone, looking at passengers, focusing on GPS, reading something, or looking in the mirror to apply makeup.
- Manual distractions. Manual distractions occur when a driver takes their hands off the wheel. Because a driver cannot fully control the vehicle, this can lead to serious accidents. Texting is considered to be both a visual and manual distraction. Some other examples of manual distractions include eating, drinking, and changing the radio station.
- Cognitive distractions. Cognitive distractions are those that take your mind off the road. They distract drivers mentally so they cannot focus on the road. They may include having conversations with passengers, tending to pets or children, daydreaming, or thinking about stressful situations or other happenings in your life.
Contact an Ocala Distracted Driving Accidents Attorney Today
Distracted driving is a serious issue, with texting and driving an especially dangerous situation among teens and young adults. It’s important for drivers to stay in control while behind the wheel so they don’t cause major car accidents.
If you have been involved in a distracted driving accident, the personal injury attorneys at Meldon Law can guide you through the process. We offer aggressive representation so you get maximum recovery. Schedule a consultation with an Ocala distracted driving accidents attorney today by calling (800) 373-3000.
