Distracted driving accidents in Cordova can, unfortunately, result in life-changing injuries depending on their nature and severity. Distracted driving occurs when drivers take their eyes off the road or lose concentration, which increases the odds of an accident. Tennessee has enacted laws meant to curb this practice, and an experienced car accident attorney like David E. Gordon can help you hold the responsible party to account if they caused an accident that injured you.
What Are the Main Causes of Distracted Driving?
Local distracted driving crashes have a variety of causes, such as:
- Using a cell phone
- Passenger behavior
- Drinking or eating
- Managing a pet in the vehicle
- Thinking about something else besides the road
- Adjusting the radio or air conditioning
While the reasons for distracted driving can vary significantly, all of them mean that the driver might not see another car or pedestrian in his or her way. Unfortunately, too many drivers feel they can take their eyes off the road for a few seconds due to their experience behind the wheel. Such mistakes can have serious or even fatal consequences, as it only takes a few seconds for a disaster to happen.
Distracted Driving Laws in Tennessee
According to Public Chapter No. 412, Senate Bill No. 1184 of the Tennessee Code, it is illegal for a driver to hold a portable device in his or her hands while the car is in motion. It is also unlawful to read, write, and send text messages, emails, and other text-based communications. Drivers additionally cannot watch videos or movies on portable devices, record and broadcast themselves online, or reach for their phones in ways that interfere with correct seat positions.
Those who violate these laws face numerous penalties if they are caught. Police officers can issue tickets if they see drivers performing distraction-related activities and can prove that the driver was not fully focused on the road. Photos, videos, and witness testimonies provide evidence required in Cordova distracted driving accident cases to prove negligence.
Penalties for Distracted Driving
Drivers found guilty of distraction while operating motor vehicles face Class C misdemeanors. The misdemeanor includes a fine of up to $50 as well as additional court fees up to $10. If the driver is a first-time offender, he or she must successfully finish a qualifying driver’s education course. Novice drivers can face fines up to $100 and might be unable to apply for an unrestricted driver’s license for up to 90 days.
Because Tennessee uses static rather than cumulative penalties, subsequent texting and driving fines do not increase. However, if the distracted driver’s actions caused an accident, he or she will receive a citation and possible probation or jail time if the incident resulted in fatalities. The driver will also likely face personal injury or wrongful death claims from the affected parties.
Work with an Attorney if You Were Involved in a Distracted Driving Accident in Cordova
Staying focused is key to preventing distracted driving accidents in Cordova. If a distracted driver hit your car, motorcycle, or struck you as a pedestrian, contact the Law Office of David E. Gordon immediately to schedule a consultation. It is our job to help guide you through the legal process and determine the best course of action to recovering financial compensation.
