Car Accident Caused By Cell Phone Use

Car accidents are unfortunately all too common and can happen for a variety of reasons. One reason, in particular, has received quite a bit of media attention over the past several years, and that’s cell phone usage.

Whether it’s talking on the phone, texting or changing the song playing, you’ve probably used your cell phone while driving before. This may not be the best idea. Not only can be involved in a car accident caused by cell phone, but you could be exposed to additional lawsuits. Learn more about the repercussions of being involved in a car accident caused by cell phone use.

Drivers at Fault

If a lawsuit is put forward after an accident, the plaintiff generally has to prove that the other driver was at fault. If the other driver was using a cell phone during or immediately before the accident, it’s much easier to make the case since cell phones can make it objectively more difficult to drive correctly and maintain focus.

Careless driving due to cell phone use can come in many forms. Oftentimes, only one hand is on the steering wheel when on a call or you might look away from the road to dial or read a text message. Even a conversation can contribute to drivers losing focus especially if it’s a particularly emotional conversation. All these factors can lead to an accident and potentially implicate the driver using a cell phone as responsible.

Employers at Fault

In some cases, it may not be solely the driver who is held responsible. If a driver gets in an accident while on a work-related call in the car or delivering a work-related text message, the employer is oftentimes more of a target than the driver themselves since the plaintiff would stand to benefit much more from a successful lawsuit. Put simply, employers tend to have deeper pockets than their employees.

Because of this, a lot of employers have implemented strict rules about their employees using cell phones while driving. Oftentimes, employees are completely forbidden to use phones or any kind of communication devices when behind the wheel although some do allow the use of hands-free equipment even though a mere conversation might be enough to warrant a lawsuit over a car accident caused by cell phone use.

Parents at Fault

While these specific laws are still in their infancy in most areas, parents could potentially be held responsible if their teenager is involved in a car accident caused by cell phone use. After all, the parents paid for the cell phone and put it in possession of the teenager.

The family purpose doctrine also comes into play here which is the practice that when a car is purchased for family use, the owner (typically a parent) is responsible for any negligent driving no matter which family member is driving.

Alabama Personal Injury Lawyer

If you’ve been involved in a car accident caused by cell phone use, you’ll need a trustworthy personal injury lawyer to see you through. That’s where the experienced attorneys at Andy Citrin Personal Injury Attorneys can help.

We’ve proudly served the great state of Alabama for nearly 30 years, so you can depend on the expertise you deserve with your case. Make sure you get the compensation you deserve after someone else’s negligence causes you or your family injury. Contact us today to get started on your case. Remember, either we win your case or we’re free!