North Carolina Fails to Pass Hands-Free Legislation – Again

By Warren & Kallianos, PLLC | July 23, 2019 |

Once again, legislation to ban cellphone use while driving in North Carolina has failed. There are 17 states that currently ban the use of handheld devices while driving and North Carolina has been trying to join that group for years. A similar bill failed in 2011. The current bill, the Hands Free NC Act, failed because of the amount of people it will affect.

“I’m very aware that this bill would affect 7 million drivers in North Carolina. It’s a big deal,” Rep. Kevin Corbin, the bill’s sponsor, said. “When you have a bill that affects the public so widely, it should be scrutinized.”

The dangers of distracted driving

According to statistics compiled by The Zebra, approximately nine people are killed daily because at least one driver involved in the accident was distracted, and distracted driving crashes account for about 8.5% of all fatal traffic crashes. About 1,000 people are injured daily in these types of accidents.

Distracted driving is an epidemic, and law enforcement officials, along with government officials, are doing all they can to curb the problem. The problem is that distracted driving tends to evolve with technology. Drivers used to be distracted by billboards, the newspaper, the radio, and other items. Now, drivers are distracted by their GPS, their cell phones, and the numerous apps available. (According to The Zebra, dogs and pets are a significant distraction, too.)

Risk factors caused by distracted driving

So, who is most at risk to be involved in an accident caused by distracted driving? The group most likely to be affected is teens and young adult drivers. The group with the highest likelihood of being involved in a fatal crash caused by distraction is that of those who are under the age of 20. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) found that those who report frequent texting while driving are:

  • More likely to get in a car driven by a drunk driver
  • More likely to fail to wear a seat belt
  • More likely to drink and drive on their own

Distracted driving is a serious problem that affects every single driver. If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident with a distracted driver in Charlotte, it is in your best interest to contact an experienced attorney. Call the office of Warren & Kallianos, PLLC at 704-377-7777 or complete a contact form to schedule a consultation.

 

Posted in Distracted Driving

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