| A study published
in the National Safety Counsel's Injury Insights journal shows that
cell phone users spend 60% of their phone time behind the wheel. Findings
such as these have fueled the debate as to the dangers of cell phone
usage while driving, and resulted in legislation banning cell phone
use while driving in certain states. While only California, Florida
and Massachusetts have laws which limit cell phone use while the vehicle
is in motion, no state completely bans talking on the cell phone while
operating a motor vehicle. New York has just recently been added to
this list by passing legislation which bans drivers from using hand-held
cell phones while driving.
Currently, accident related deaths are at an all-time low of 1.5
deaths per every 100 miles driven. However, with an increasing number
of teenager drivers climbing behind the wheel, and the dramatic
increase in the use of gadgets that tend to distract drivers, today's
motorist can never be too cautious. Further, as the size and speed
of automobiles increases, so does the severity of impact between
vehicles. Sport utility vehicles now dominate American roadways
and, while these vehicle may provide additional safeguards to their
operators, the size and weight of these vehicles can be devastating
upon impact with a compact or economy-sized vehicle.
While many motorists are vigilant in paying attention to the road,
and do not engage in distracting activities, they can nonetheless
fall victim to negligent drivers. The occurrence of a serious auto
accident often results in immediate, dramatic upheaval of all aspects
of the victim's life. While some injuries may threaten the victim's
life, those that merely jeopardize the general well-being or livelihood
of a driver can also be devastating. Fortunately, there are people
who can help -- medical professionals with specific training and
experience in treating accident-related injuries, and attorneys
who specialize in motor vehicle accident litigation. Accident victims
and their family members must be vigilant in the protection of the
victim's legal rights, and immediate and long-term medical care
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