Massachusetts Teen driving while texting not aware how distracting Hand-Held Mobil Devices are

The Boston Globe has reported that more than 53,000 distracted driving tickets were issued in 2023 alone. Since the 2020 enactment of a Massachusetts law that made it illegal to operate a motor vehicle while using any electronic device, over 177,000 related tickets have been written. In Massachusetts, drivers can’t use electronic devices unless they are in “hands- free mode” and can only be used for navigation or Bluetooth calls if the device is mounted in an appropriate location, or else you could face a substantial fine. For example, first-time adult offenders must pay a ticket of $100, and the amount can increase to $500 by the third offense. Distracted driving is not only illegal in Massachusetts, but it is also dangerous and can lead to very serious car accidents.

Why Is Texting and Driving Dangerous?

Distracted driver who was texting while driving

Seekonk Police Chief Craig Mace has stated in a WPRI article that “texting and driving is more dangerous than many people realize. Operating a car while trying to text is almost the equivalent of being at a 0.08 blood alcohol level.” In fact, the National Highway Safety Administration has reported that more than 3,300 people were killed in distracted driving car crashes in 2022. In Massachusetts, from 2018 to 2022, 2,045 people in Massachusetts died in car crashes that were caused by distracted driving. According to CNBC, 6 out of 10 moderate to severe car crashes involving teens were the result of driver distraction.

Are There Alternative Communication Techniques to Texting While Driving?

Of course, there are alternatives to texting while driving, but that does not mean that they are also safe. The easiest alternative is to keep your phone in your pocket or purse and do not look at it until you arrive at your destination. However, if the need to use your phone is critical, here are some alternatives to help lessen the chances of a Massachusetts car crash:

    • iPhone with Auto Responders appAuto-Responders: These specific apps for your phone respond with an automated message when you cannot use your phone, for example, while driving or in a meeting. To use this, the driver may turn the app on before driving, and if any texts are received, it’ll respond to the sender with an automated message of the driver’s choosing.
    • Pull Over: If you receive a text that deserves your immediate attention while you’re behind the wheel, just pull over. Make sure you do it at a portion of the road that has a shoulder or breakdown lane or pull off into a parking lot.
    • Turn Your Phone Off: Turning off the phone or putting it on silent mode will not only keep the temptation away from the driver to check their phone for messages, which will also allow the driver to keep their eyes on the road, creating a safer roadway.

Contact a Massachusetts Car Accident Lawyer

Car Accident lawyer with couple hurt in accident from person texting while drivingIf you or someone you know has been injured in a car accident as a result of texting while driving, contact one of our experienced Attleboro, Massachusetts car accident lawyers. You may be entitled to receive compensation for your medical bills, lost income and pain and suffering, among other losses. No fees are received unless you win your case. For a free (no obligation) case evaluation, call us toll free at 1-800-992-6878. You may also fill out our contact form online.

Attleboro Personal Injury Lawyer | d’Oliveira & Associates

155 North Main Street,
Attleboro, MA 02703

Phone: (508) 223-1133

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