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A man in a Mercedes sends a text message while driving.

Injured in a car accident? Hire a personal injury attorney.It’s official. As of October 1st, 2013, Florida has joined other states in enacting a Texting and Driving ban in hopes of decreasing both fatal and non-fatal car accidents. Signed into law by Gov. Rick Scott, SB52 formally makes texting and driving a secondary offense.

We’ve all witnessed others on their cellphones – texting with their eyes off of the road. And, we’re probably guilty of it too. We don’t think much of it when we reply to a text message or need to let someone know we’re running late.

Because we don’t think it will happen to us.

However, over the years, distracted driving has reportedly increased the number of car accidents throughout our nation.

Get the Facts About Distracted Driving and Car Accidents

Here are the facts according to the CDC,

  • Last year in the state of Florida, there were approximately 4,500 accidents related to distracted driving and of those 255 were directly related to texting and driving
  • In 2011, 3,331 people were killed in car accident related to distracted driving, while 387,000 were injured
  • 69% of drivers ages 18-64 admit talking on their cellphone and driving

The numbers don’t lie. It can happen to anyone.

You’ve had that car swerving in and out of traffic, barely missing you. And when you drive by, the driver’s face is buried in a cellphone screen. Yeah, you weren’t in an accident – But, what about next time? You can’t predict the future.

More Legislation. More Problems.

That’s why this ban was signed into law. States are trying to limit the number of fatalities and injuries resulting from car accidents. And, although it can’t solve the car accident problem, it sure can help.

But, with a new law comes skepticism. There are those who don’t think this new law goes far enough. More could be done. Why?

  • The law makes texting and driving a secondary offense. Meaning, you must first be pulled over for another reason in order to receive a ticket.
  • The fine isn’t large enough. Currently, the fine is merely $30.00.
  • You can’t text and drive, but there isn’t much stopping you from texting at a red light or while at a stop.

There may be room for improvement, but for the time being, we’ll see where this new ban on texting and driving will take us. If we’re lucky, we’ll start to see that decrease in car accident injuries and fatalities they’re hoping to see.

At the Andriotis Law Firm, we promote safe driving practices. But we also understand accidents are referred to as “accidents” for a reason. So, if you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident, contact our office today for a free consultation.