Car accidents caused by distracted driving, especially texting, have become a significant issue on California’s roads. If you’ve been involved in an accident where the other driver was texting, an experienced car accident lawyers from Avaness Law can help you pursue compensation for your injuries and damages. Here’s an overview of California’s texting while driving laws, and how the attorneys at Avaness Law can assist in proving liability in your case.
What are California’s Texting While Driving Laws?
California has strict laws when it comes to texting while driving. Under the state’s Vehicle Code, it is illegal to send or read text messages while operating a vehicle. This law applies to all drivers, whether on city streets or highways. Additionally, the law includes a hands-free requirement for cell phone use while driving, meaning drivers cannot hold their phones to talk or text.
Why Were these Laws Implemented?
The primary goal of California’s texting while driving laws is to reduce accidents and fatalities caused by distracted driving.
To Reduce Road Accidents and Fatalities
The California texting ban was implemented to address the rising number of car accidents resulting from drivers being distracted by their phones. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), texting while driving significantly increases the risk of a crash because it requires a driver’s eyes to leave the road for several seconds, even at low speeds.
To Discourage Distracted Driving Behaviors
These laws were also designed to discourage drivers from engaging in risky behaviors like texting while driving. Texting is one of the most dangerous distractions because it involves visual, manual, and cognitive distractions all at once, impairing a driver’s ability to focus on the road.
What are the Penalties for Texting While Driving?
The penalties for violating California’s texting while driving laws can range from fines to points on your driving record, which can ultimately increase your insurance premiums.
Initial Fines Starting from $20 to $50
The base fine for a first offense is $20. However, this can increase with additional fees, making the total cost much higher.
Additional Fees Can Increase the Cost Significantly
When including administrative and court fees, the cost of a texting while driving ticket can soar to $150 or more. For repeat offenders, the financial consequences can grow substantially.
Points on Driving Record for Repeat Offenses
Drivers who repeatedly violate the law may also face points on their driving records, which could lead to higher insurance premiums and, in some cases, a suspension of their driver’s license.
How Do these Laws Apply to Different Drivers?
California’s texting while driving laws have different provisions depending on the type of driver.
Under 18 Drivers are Not Allowed Any Cellphone Use
Drivers under the age of 18 face even stricter rules. They are prohibited from using their cellphones at all while driving, even if they are using a hands-free device.
Commercial Drivers have Stricter Regulations
Commercial drivers, such as truck drivers, are subject to even stricter regulations. Not only are they prohibited from texting, but they are also forbidden from using handheld devices for talking while driving.
Are there any Exceptions to the Law?
California’s law does allow for some exceptions.
Emergency Services Personnel During Duty
Emergency responders, such as police officers, firefighters, and paramedics, are exempt from the texting ban when performing their duties.
Using Hands-Free Devices is Permitted
The law allows the use of hands-free devices, such as Bluetooth headsets or in-car voice command systems. Drivers can also use voice-to-text functions or hands-free calls without violating the law.
How Can Drivers Comply with These Laws?
There are several ways that drivers can ensure they comply with California’s texting while driving laws:
Use of Voice-Operated and Hands-Free Systems
Drivers can make use of voice-operated systems or hands-free devices to answer calls, send messages, or get directions, which keeps their attention on the road.
Setting Up Auto-Reply Messages to Incoming Texts
Setting up auto-reply messages to incoming texts is another way to avoid the temptation to look at your phone while driving. Many drivers use the “Do Not Disturb” function to prevent distractions while on the road.
What are the Consequences of Violating these Laws?
Violating California’s texting while driving laws can have severe consequences, not only for the individual driver but also for others on the road.
Increased Insurance Premiums After Violations
Insurance companies often increase premiums for drivers who have received citations for texting while driving. Repeated violations or accidents caused by distracted driving can result in even steeper hikes in premiums.
License Suspension for Repeat Offenders
Repeat offenders of texting while driving laws may face a license suspension. Drivers with multiple violations may also be required to attend traffic safety courses to regain their driving privileges.
Mandatory Completion of a Driving Safety Course
In some cases, repeat offenders may be required to complete a driving safety course or participate in other educational programs to ensure they understand the risks of distracted driving.
When to Contact a Car Accident Lawyer
If you’ve been involved in a car accident caused by a distracted driver who was texting, the auto accident lawyers at Avaness Law can help you recover compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and other damages. Our auto accident attorneys will gather crucial evidence to demonstrate the other driver’s negligence and prove that texting was the cause of the crash. Evidence such as phone records, eyewitness testimony, traffic camera footage, and accident reconstruction can all play a role in proving that the driver was texting at the time of the accident.
At Avaness Law, our experienced car accident lawyers know what it takes to build a strong case that can prove liability and your demand for compensation.
Injured in an Accident? We Offer a Free Consultation!
At Avaness Law, our car accident lawyers offer free consultations to discuss the specifics of your case. If you’re unsure about the next steps or need advice on how to proceed, don’t hesitate to reach out and speak with one of their experienced car accident attorneys. Contact us today to schedule your free consultation to learn more about how we can help.
