Wisconsin Next To Be Hands Free

Safe Driving Takes Back Seat to Mobile Phones

Isn’t it every day that we see people using their hand-held devices while driving? Of course nobody purposefully intends to hurt anyone else. But, what they’re actually saying is that their message, search, music or social media is far more important that the life and safety of others around them. According to most recent WI DOT data, “texting & driving” is the leading cause of distracted driving accidents. It also indicates an increase in fatal crashes, as well as increases in injuries due to excessive speed. There are many things that a driver can get caught up in to distract them from the responsibility of driving. Many distractions involve the mobile phone, but they go much further than texting alone.

Distracted Driving Laws In Wisconsin

To date, laws have not kept pace with the advancement of phone technology. Nor have they addressed all drivers, or situations outside of work zones. “When you put that key in the ignition, you…exercise the power of life and death over everybody you come in contact with. Think about that.”  That is a powerful quote made by Wisconsin Senator Wanggaard years ago. Distracted driving laws in Wisconsin have not been significantly updated since banning use of phones in work zones. The current law mostly makes it illegal for all Wisconsin drivers to “text and drive.” As drivers have become more confident in their distracted driving habits, and use phones for more things, they pose an increasing threat to pedestrians and other drivers.This disturbing mindset and accident trend happening in Wisconsin and across the U.S.

Who’s Responsible For Problem?

Wisconsin teen crash rates have been above national average. This statistics can be directly related to inexperience, as much as inattentive and distracted driving. But are teens fully to blame? After all, we see them on their phones and constantly distracted, right? The truth is that it’s not just young people who are putting themselves and others in danger. Experienced, older drivers are as just as much to blame. A few weeks ago, a school bus in Kenosha County, WI was hit by a distracted driver. Why is it that most bus drivers are prohibited from using phones when other types of drivers are not? Whether we’re talking an entire bus full of children, one person, each life is precious. To prevent accidents, more drivers should take a second to consider what is at risk. The time is now Wisconsin: Drive to stay alive.

Wisconsin Could Become Hands-Free State

Recent news indicates that Wisconsin may be closer to becoming a mobile “hands-free” state. The more the problem is brought to the surface, the more quickly changes may happen. If you’re a victim of an accident and had witnessed the other driver engaged in distracting behavior, don’t wait for an investigation to find this evidence. Let police officers, first responders, and your accident attorney know. What you saw or heard prior to the crash is important to have on record.

Accident Victims’ Rights

We need more than a “national month of recognition” to put these thoughts top of mind. Every month, every day, and every time a driver gets behind the wheel, safety should be the first thought. For today, consider setting a “driving at the moment” auto message to avoid phone distractions while driving. Then support tougher state and local laws to improve upon current texting and driving laws. Furthermore, if you or a family member is involved in what should have been, a preventable accident, seek help. As an accident victim, you have rights. Hire Action Law Offices to see if you are eligible to receive monetary compensation for serious injuries, tragic loss of life, and other damages. Start here with a free accident consultation.

DISCLAIMER: Blogs and articles cover very basic accident and injury topics for education and awareness such as statistics, Wisconsin Laws, injury areas, compensation and injury victim rights. Information not intended for legal advice; consult with an attorney directly.

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