Distracted driving is any activity that could divert the vehicle driver’s attention away from driving which can cause accidents and unfortunately, sometimes loss of life. A distraction while driving can be visual, manual or cognitive. A few examples are texting, reading, talking on the phone, eating, an uncaged or unharnessed pet and putting on makeup while you are driving. All distractions endanger the driver and compromise the safety of the passenger(s) and bystander(s) and those in other vehicles.
In the state of Mississippi there are currently three primary laws regarding distractions while driving.
A primary law means that an officer can ticket the driver for the offense without any other traffic violation taking place. The three laws are as follows:
1. Ban on all cell phones use (handheld and hands-free) for bus drivers
2. Ban on texting for bus drivers.
3. Ban on texting for novice drivers. Mississippi defines novice drivers as drivers with a learner’s permit or provisional license.
Distracted driving is a growing problem and is responsible for many injuries and deaths that could otherwise be prevented. According to the website www.distraction.gov in 2012, alone 3,328 were killed in distracted driving crashes. An estimated 421,000 people were injured in motor vehicle crashes involving a distracted driver; this was a nine percent increase from the estimated 387,000 people injured in 2011.
We urge you to educate yourself on the dangers of distracted driving. To practice safe driving habits and to speak out if the driver in your vehicle is distracted. The life you save could be yours.
If you or a loved one has been a victim of a distracted driver you should contact an experienced personal injury attorney at Hopkins, Barvié & Hopkins, P.L.L.C and we will evaluate your case at no cost or obligation.
Contact us online or call 228-864-2200 to schedule your free initial consultation with an experienced lawyer.
At Hopkins, Barvié & Hopkins, P.L.L.C., we defend your interests and protect your legal rights. With more than 66 years of combined legal experience, our attorneys offer our clients throughout Mississippi the representation they need.
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