Texting while driving remains a problem throughout the United States, including in Pennsylvania.
According to a press release issued by state Rep. Justin Walsh, 69 people were killed in distracted-driving accidents in 2016. This was in addition to more than 16,000 distracted driving accidents.
As if these statewide numbers aren’t bad enough, approximately 10 people are killed every day nationally in distracted driving-related accidents.
A Connellsville Police Department officer weighed in on this, noting that the prevalence of cellphones may be at the root of the problem. He noted, “I think phones are so prevalent now that I don’t know if people even comprehend they’re breaking a law. If you’re on your phone, and you’re driving, you’re not even aware of the consequences that could happen.”
Since texting and driving remains such a big problem in Pennsylvania, it’s only natural that the number of citations for this behavior has also increased.
Citations for distracted driving in Pennsylvania increased by 52 percent between the years of 2013 and 2017.
While cellphone use is a major concern, there are other forms of distracted driving, including but not limited to changing radio stations, singing, eating and simply focusing on something other than the task at hand.
Unfortunately, even if you’re avoiding distractions while driving, it doesn’t mean that others are doing the same. If you’re part of an accident with a distracted driver, learn more about what went wrong. This information will help you formulate a strategy for protecting your legal rights and seeking the compensation you deserve for your injuries and other damages.
Source: Herald-Standard, “Texting while driving citations increase statewide and locally,” Alyssa Choiniere, April 24, 2018