In the time it takes to locate a contact and make an outbound call, or read a text message, a motor vehicle can travel several hundred feet in virtually any direction. As car accidents involving distracted drivers run a greater risk of having cataclysmic results, finding ways to keep similar acts of negligence from placing lives in danger is imperative. Although a new hands-free driving law in Massachusetts may seek to cut down on distraction-related incidents, preventing all incidents could prove a challenging feat.
Reports indicate that this new law has now taken effect and that law enforcement agents will begin enforcing it immediately. The law prohibits the handheld use of cellphones and instead requires drivers to use a hands free device to communicate via cellphone while driving. In addition, only certain types of hands-free devices will be allowed, as the use of devices such as over-the-ear headphones is also prohibited.
The hands-free law also prohibits handheld use of a cellphone while waiting at a traffic light or a railroad crossing. The potential ramifications of being involved in a traffic stop for violating this law include substantial monetary fines that increase in severity with each successive offense. Unfortunately, such repercussions might only prove to be a best case scenario, as spotting a distracted driver in time to prevent a potentially disastrous collision might not always be possible.
Individuals who suffer serious injuries in car accidents involving distracted drivers may wish to exercise their rights to seek restitution in civil court, but the process can be intimidating and complex. Those who face a similar scenario could benefit from retaining the services of an attorney early on for advice on the best course of action with which to proceed. Such guidance could help a person in Massachusetts better prepare to pursue the restitution deserved through a claim against the party deemed responsible.