Distracted driving has become an epidemic on California roads. Cell phones, GPS devices, eating, and other distractions cause thousands of preventable accidents each year.
California's Distracted Driving Laws
California has strict laws against distracted driving:
- No handheld cell phone use while driving
- No texting while driving
- Drivers under 18 cannot use any wireless device
- Even hands-free use must not distract from driving
Types of Distraction
Visual Taking eyes off the road
Manual Taking hands off the wheel
Cognitive Taking mind off driving
Texting combines all three, making it especially dangerous.
Proving Distracted Driving
Evidence may include:
- Cell phone records
- Text message timestamps
- Eyewitness testimony
- Video footage
- Accident reconstruction
- Social media posts with timestamps
Increased Damages for Distracted Driving
Courts may award higher damages when distraction is proven, as it demonstrates reckless disregard for safety.
Punitive Damages
In egregious cases, punitive damages may be available to punish particularly reckless behavior.
Common Injuries
- Rear-end collision injuries
- T-bone crash injuries
- Pedestrian injuries
- Head-on collision injuries
Don't Let Them Get Away With It
Distracted drivers who cause accidents should be held accountable. Our network of attorneys has experience proving distraction and securing fair compensation for victims.