Have you ever driven while checking a text message or scrolling through social media? You’re not alone. Distracted driving is a prevalent issue in the United States that has led to a significant increase in accidents caused by drivers who are not paying attention to the road. This dangerous behavior can result in serious consequences, including property damage, injuries, and fatalities. In this blog post, we will explore the legal implications of distracted driving accidents in the USA, including examples of civil and criminal cases.
But first, let’s define what constitutes distracted driving and the impact it has on road safety. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), distracted driving claimed 2,841 lives in the United States in 2018 alone. Distracted driving is defined as any activity that diverts a driver’s attention away from driving, including texting, talking on the phone, eating, adjusting the radio, or using a navigation system.
Civil cases in the context of distracted driving accidents are typically filed by the injured party against the driver who caused the accident. In these cases, the injured party is seeking compensation for damages, which can include medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Distracted driving is often cited as the cause of the accident in these cases, and the plaintiff must prove that the driver was negligent in their duty to operate the vehicle safely.
Binkowski v. Grand Island Express resulted in a $16.5 million verdict for a man who was seriously injured in a crash with a texting truck driver. The defendant admitted to texting while driving and was cited for careless driving. The plaintiff suffered severe injuries, including a traumatic brain injury, a fractured neck, and a crushed ankle. The jury found the defendant and his employer liable for the plaintiff’s injuries and awarded $16.5 million in damages, highlighting the legal consequences of distracted driving and employer liability for employee actions.
Criminal cases in the context of distracted driving accidents can result in much more serious consequences for the driver. These cases are typically filed by the state or federal government and can result in fines, license suspension, or even jail time. In criminal cases, the burden of proof is much higher than in civil cases, as the prosecution must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that the driver was operating the vehicle in a reckless or negligent manner.
One example of a criminal case resulting from distracted driving is the case of STATE OF NEW JERSEY v. ALEXANDRA MANSONET, at age 51, from Keansburg, was convicted in November 2019 of second degree vehicular homicide for the fatal 2016 crash that claimed the life of 39-year-old Yuwen Wang. Texting while driving in Hazlet when she crashed into the back of a car that struck and killed a pedestrian was sentenced to five years in prison.
After analyzing the legal implications of distracted driving, it is clear that drivers should take extra care to stay focused on the road. With the prevalence of cell phones and other technological distractions, it can be tempting to check messages or social media while behind the wheel. However, the risks of distracted driving far outweigh any potential benefits. Not only can it lead to devastating consequences for yourself and others on the road, but it can also result in legal penalties that can have long-lasting effects. By prioritizing safety and avoiding distractions while driving, we can all do our part to make the roads safer for everyone.
