Over the past several years, technology has advanced to the point at which almost every motorist has at least one electronic gadget with them at all times. Whether it be a cell phone or a GPS system, drivers have begun to rely heavily on these external gadgets to assist them in reaching their destination. While responsible use of a GPS system or a cell-phone navigation app does not necessarily present a safety issue, the reality is that drivers are not always responsible when it comes to using these items.
When a driver’s attention is removed from the road – even for a split second – the chance of causing an accident greatly increases. Indeed, it is estimated that one in four traffic accidents are caused by texting and driving. Some studies suggest that distracted driving is even more dangerous than drunk driving.
Despite the known dangers of distracted driving, motorists continue to use their phones when behind the wheel. In Maryland, it is illegal to talk or text on the phone while driving. Motorists can only use their cell phones with approved hands-free devices. While a violation of Maryland’s texting-while-driving ban will only result in a $40 fine for a first-time offender, there may be more significant penalties if an accident is caused as a result.
In Maryland, anyone injured in an accident that was caused by a distracted driver can file a personal injury lawsuit against the driver, seeking compensation for their injuries. Furthermore, the fact that the distracted driver was using their phone at the time of the accident will almost certainly be an important factor in the case.
Head-On Collision Between Pick-Up Truck and Bus Kills Two
Earlier this month, a collision between a pick-up truck and a chartered school bus killed two and injured several others. According to a news report covering the tragic accident, the two vehicles were heading in opposite directions on a West Texas highway when the pick-up truck inexplicably crossed over the center median. The driver of the bus did not have time to avoid the collision, and the two vehicles collided head-on.
The driver of the pick-up truck, as well as one passenger onboard the bus, was pronounced dead at the scene. The remaining passengers on the bus had to be evacuated through the vehicle’s windows. Police do not know why the pick-up truck crossed into oncoming traffic, but the accident remains under investigation.
Have You Been Injured in a Bus or Truck Accident?
If you or a loved one has recently been injured in a Maryland truck accident, you may be entitled to monetary compensation. The dedicated personal injury attorneys at the Maryland-based law firm of Lebowitz & Mzhen Personal Injury Lawyers have extensive personal injury experience, and we know what it takes to be successful on behalf of our clients in courtrooms across the region. We understand that the recovery process can be a difficult one in many ways, and we advise our clients without rushing or pressuring them in any way. To learn more, and to speak with an attorney about your case, call 410-654-3600 to schedule a free consultation.
More Blog Posts:
Seeking Financial Compensation After a Maryland Truck Accident, Maryland Trucking Accident Lawyer Blog, published April 26, 2017.
Distracted Driving Likely Played a Role in Fatal Church Bus Accident, Maryland Trucking Accident Lawyer Blog, published April 12, 2017.