Today mobile phones are ubiquitous in our daily lives – we check them to keep up with news, social media, and text message friends and family. However, using a mobile phone while driving is a dangerous distraction and is against the law in North Carolina.
Texting While Driving is Illegal
According to recent surveys, upwards of 71% of teens say they have written a text message while driving. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration estimates 3,331 people were killed in accidents involving distracted drivers in 2011.
Distracted drivers are more likely to be teenagers, who have less experience driving and more interest in texting.
North Carolina law states that all drivers under 18 are banned from using cell phones or any other mobile device while driving. All school bus drivers are prohibited from using cell phones except in an emergency situation.
In addition to this, all drivers in North Carolina are prohibited from texting or reading a text message while their vehicle is in motion. A driver caught reading or sending a text faces a fine of $100 plus court fees.
Distracted Drivers Can Kill
Unfortunately, many innocent people can be hurt by a distracted driver who is texting while driving. If you’re involved in an accident with someone who you believe was texting while driving, you need to know your rights. Texting while driving is illegal in North Carolina and you may be entitled to legal recourse.
If you feel that you or a loved one is injured as the result of a car accident with a distracted driver, legal consultation is recommended. Medical bills can be costly and lost wages due to an injury can take their toll. An experienced lawyer can examine all facts in order to determine if you have grounds to file a personal injury suit.
Contact A Lawyer
Thomas D. Bumgardner is a Charlotte auto accident attorney with years of experience fighting for his client’s rights in personal injury cases and getting results. For a free consultation please call us at (704) 870-4779.