Home » Law and Legal Articles » Connecticut Enhances Distracted Driving Penalties
Connecticut Enhances Distracted Driving Penalties
Connecticut lawmakers recently increased distracted driving penalties for using a cell phone or texting while driving.
September 18, 2011 /Law and Legal PR News/ -- Distracted drivers are a danger to themselves and everyone on the road, including passengers, pedestrians and other motorists. The U.S. Department of Transportation warns drivers that use of even hands-free cell phones and other electronic devices delays reaction times for drivers as much as intoxication. The faster a vehicle is traveling, the more likely it is that a moment's hesitation will lead to a car accident.
The majority of states have passed laws to make phone use, texting and other activities illegal under certain circumstances or by certain drivers. Connecticut prohibits all cell phone use by school bus drivers and drivers less than 18 years old, and text messaging by all drivers. These distracted driving infractions are a primary offense, meaning that police can pull over a driver for the sole offense of texting and issue a ticket.
Connecticut has recently increased penalties for using a cell phone or texting while driving. The fine for a first offense will increase to $125 and a second offense will have a $250 penalty. Fines for subsequent offenses can go as high as $400. The biggest change passed in 2011: truck drivers and other commercial motor vehicle operators could lose their licenses if caught texting while driving, with exceptions for emergency situations.
Connecticut Personal Injury Attorneys Protect the Interests of Injury Victims
Imposing harsher penalties for text messaging or using mobile phones is one key to reducing distracted driving on Connecticut streets and highways. The human and financial costs of truck accidents, motorcycle accidents and other motor vehicle accidents devastate families and harm society.
A Connecticut motor vehicle accident lawyer can help an injury victim assess the full extent of the harm suffered and present the other driver's insurance company with a clear case for compensation. Another crucial service, especially in truck and other commercial vehicle accident cases, is identifying the full range of potentially liable parties to help clients obtain full compensation for severe injuries.
After a fatal car accident, an attorney can explain a family's legal options in a wrongful death claim to compensate for lost income and other losses from the avoidable tragedy. Litigation provides legal solutions when even stiffer criminal penalties fail to stop reckless driving and operator negligence.
Article provided by The Pickel Law Firm, LLC
Visit us at www.alanpickel.com
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