April is Distracted Driving Awareness Month. While outlets throughout the nation—including the state of Alabama—are highlighting the dangers of this activity this month all would likely agree that avoiding this practice is important every day of the year. Some legislators in the state appear to think so. They recently tried to strengthen the state’s laws concerning the activity.
Readers may already be aware that the distracted driving behavior of engaging in texting while driving is against the law. The bill that these law makers sought to pass would add to the list of distracted driving behaviors. In addition to texting, the bill would have added the following activities to the definition:
- Writing
- Reading
- Personal grooming
- Distracted driving
Under the bill the initial violation would lead to a $25 fine, the second $50 and $75 for the third.
Likely much to the disappointment of the lawmakers behind the bill, earlier this week the Alabama House succeeded in blocking it becoming law. It failed on a procedural vote.
Reducing distracted driving on the roads throughout Alabama would likely also reduce the number of traffic accidents that occur and lead to fewer personal injury lawsuits being filed. Since distracted driving will probably continue to be a factor in motor vehicle accidents in the state it is important that drivers understand that following a crash of this nature that is caused by someone else, they may be able to take legal action. A personal injury lawyer can help to determine whether following this course is a good idea.
