Today, most states in the U.S. have some form of texting or calling-while-driving ban in effect. Those that don’t are currently working on them. No one denies that these types of bans are needed, but some question whether they can ever be enforced properly.
Short of someone admitting to texting while driving, or a police officer seeing them in the act, it is very difficult to prove that a person was texting at the time of an accident under the current laws. That may be changing in Maryland soon, thanks to a bill that would change the approach that law enforcement takes to prove that a suspect was driving distracted.
The Baltimore Sun explains that, under the proposed law, police officers could request cell phone information from a suspect if they have cause to believe that texting caused an accident. They could ask about the driver’s service provider, phone number and even their email account, which would then be used to look at their texting, email and data usage at the time of the accident.
The Bill Would Also Implement Tougher Penalties For Distracted Driving
If a person who is texting and driving causes an accident, killing or injuring another driver or pedestrian, they could face 3 years in jail and be fined upwards of $5,000. Supporters of the bill point out that distracted driving is just as deadly as drink driving, so it should be treated the same if it causes serious injuries.
Just like a drink driver is required to submit to a blood test, distracted drivers should be required to give their cell-phone information to police.
If you have been injured in an accident with a driver who was texting or talking on their cell phone, you may be able to recover compensation for your injuries that could cover medical bills, physical therapy costs and any loss in earning ability. To find out if you qualify and to speak to an accident lawyer in Baltimore from the Duboff Law Group, Call Us At 443-912-0002 Today!
The Bill Could Save Lives By Deterring Drivers From Texting And Driving
The Baltimore Sun article also cites a recent poll of almost 800 Maryland residents, which found that more than 25 percent of drivers used a cellphone while driving during the last six months. This exposes a need for this sort of bill—one that is designed to make the statement that negligent driving is unacceptable and should be punished more severely.
While the bill is being debated in the state legislature, people are still being injured every day by negligent drivers. Fortunately, these drivers can often find justice by filing a personal-injury lawsuit. If you find yourself in need of a personal-injury lawyer in Baltimore, Call Us At 443-912-0002 Today!
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