Distracted driving is not a new problem. However, it seems to be the cause of more and more accidents nationwide. In fact, the National Highway and Traffic Safety Administration has recently released reports indicating that thousands of individuals are killed as a result of distracted drivers each year. In response to the drastic increase in accidents because of cell phone usage and text messaging, New Mexico passed Senate Bill 19 back in 2014.
This bill made it illegal for individuals for talk or text while driving. The bill does allow people to talk if they are not using a hand held device, and it allows individuals to text during emergencies. New Mexico is one of the last states to ban texting while operating a vehicle.
If an individual is found to be violating this law, the penalties will be relative to the specific circumstances of their situation. For example, the police may fine a first-time offender roughly $25. However, the fines will essentially double every time they are found to be in violation. Some individuals feel that sole monetary punishment will not be enough to deter individuals from committing this offense, but others believe this is a good first step in the right direction. Of course, if a distracted driver causes an accident while texting, they may be held liable for the injuries caused by their negligence.
One Example of the Dangers of Texting
Late last month, officials discovered new details regarding an accident that killed five Georgia nursing students. According to one local news report, the families of the girls who were killed have hired an attorney who has been investigating the details surrounding the accident. Apparently, an investigation has revealed that the truck driver was “sexting” during the accident.
The investigation stems from an April accident when the driver of a semi-truck caused a fatal accident. The crash occurred when the truck’s driver did not slow down when traffic in front of him began to slow, and he rammed into a series of cars in front of him, including the cars holding the five victims. The crash ended up causing a massive accident involving several cars and trucks. The driver has admitted that he was texting while driving, and additionally he stated that he was receiving naked photos when the crash happened. Evidently, his truck was also filled with pornography. The attorney has stated that it is also highly likely that the driver was also looking at pornography when he caused the crash.
Have You Been Involved in an Accident with a Truck in New Mexico?
If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident, you should consider contacting one of the experienced attorneys at the Fine Law Firm. Truck accidents can have disastrous effects, and those drivers who participate in negligent behavior should be held responsible for the damages they cause. If you have been involved in an accident in which the other party was texting, the Fine Law Firm may be able to represent you. If you are successful, you may be entitled to monetary compensation for the injuries you suffered as a result of the other party’s negligence. Contact an attorney at the Fine Law Firm today at 505-243-4541 to schedule your free initial consultation.
More Blog Posts:
Two Killed in Accident Involving Band’s Van and Semi-Truck, New Mexico Personal Injury Lawyer Blog, November 24, 2015.
Large Double-Decker Tour Bus Crash Results in Several Injuries, New Mexico Personal Injury Lawyer Blog, December 1, 2015.