Smartphones a leading cause of motor vehicle accidents

It will come as no surprise to Pennsylvania readers to learn that smartphones are one of the leading causes of motor vehicle accidents. Despite safety measures, new technology and new laws, drivers are still at a higher risk of motor vehicle accidents due to the use of phones. In fact, the number of traffic accident deaths jumped 8.1 percent in the first half 2015, indicating that distraction may be to blame. 

Statistics indicate that America’s roads and interstates may be more dangerous than ever before. The dawn of the smartphone era has led to more temptations for drivers, from texting to using navigation applications. Experts agree that phone use definitely plays a role in the increase in traffic fatalities across the nation, but they do acknowledge that other factors may also play a role. 

One of the most common distractions related to phone use is texting and driving. In fact, texting has become such a problem that many states have enacted laws preventing the activity, but it is not clear if new legislation has increased the safety of the roads. Experts also suggest that lower gas prices have encouraged more drivers to be on the roads, perhaps increasing the number of accidents.

No matter what caused the accident, victims of motor vehicle accidents caused by negligence have a right to understand their options regarding financial compensation. An experienced lawyer can determine if distraction or the use of a smartphone caused the accident, building a strong case for recompense. Pennsylvania victims would be wise to protect their rights by seeking an opinion regarding appropriate legal steps. 

Source:  New York Post, “More US drivers may be dying because of smartphones“, Nov. 25, 2015