Harrisburg’s bustling roadways, with their mix of commuters, delivery trucks, and pedestrians, present challenges for even the most attentive drivers. Unfortunately, distracted driving has become a growing menace in the city, leading to numerous car accidents, injuries, and even fatalities.
Understanding the risks, causes, and legal consequences of distracted driving is imperative for every driver in Harrisburg. If a distracted driver injures you, our car accident lawyers can pursue the compensation you deserve.
What Constitutes Distracted Driving?
Distracted driving occurs when a driver’s attention shifts from the primary task of operating a vehicle to something else. It’s more than just texting or talking on the phone. Distractions can be manual (taking hands off the wheel), visual (looking away from the road), or cognitive (thinking about something other than driving). In Harrisburg, common distractions include:
- Cell phone use, including texting, calling, or checking notifications
- Eating or drinking while driving
- Grooming or applying makeup
- Adjusting vehicle controls like the radio, GPS, or air conditioning
- Interacting with passengers or pets
- Daydreaming or being lost in thought
Most people don’t understand that it only takes a split second of inattention for a car accident to happen. For example, reading a text while driving at 55 mph means taking your eyes off the road for about five seconds—the length of a football field. If a distracted driver has injured you, our attorneys are here to help.
Leading Causes of Distracted Driving Accidents
While distractions are numerous, certain behaviors consistently contribute to accidents in the Harrisburg area:
- Texting and driving is the most dangerous form of distraction. Pennsylvania’s statewide ban on texting while driving prohibits drivers from using devices to send, read, or write text-based communication. Yet, enforcement challenges and driver complacency allow this behavior to continue.
- Multitasking behind the wheel is prevalent, especially during morning commutes or school drop-offs. Drivers may attempt to eat breakfast, check emails, or navigate GPS systems simultaneously.
- Teen drivers and young adults are particularly susceptible to distracted driving, often underestimating the risks or overestimating their multitasking abilities.
- Urban distractions, such as navigating through Harrisburg’s busy intersections and reacting to pedestrians or cyclists, further compound the risk.
Legal Penalties for Distracted Driving Accidents
In Harrisburg, distracted driving isn’t just dangerous; in fact, it’s illegal and can carry significant penalties. Pennsylvania law prohibits all drivers from using interactive wireless communication devices to send or read text messages while driving. The fine for a texting violation is $50 plus court costs and other fees.
However, the stakes are much higher if distracted driving causes an accident. If you cause an accident resulting in injury or death due to distracted driving, you may face:
- Criminal charges, including reckless driving or vehicular homicide, depending on the accident’s severity.
- Civil liability, where the injured party can sue for damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
- License suspension or revocation, particularly if the accident leads to serious injuries or fatalities.
- Increased insurance rates or even cancellation of your policy.
In addition to state laws, Harrisburg drivers should be aware that distracted driving accidents often lead to complex legal disputes. Victims may pursue compensation through personal injury lawsuits, and drivers who cause these accidents could face substantial financial and legal consequences.
Contact Our Skilled Accident Attorneys Today
Suppose you’ve been involved in a distracted driving accident in Harrisburg, whether as a victim or the at-fault driver; it’s essential to seek legal advice from our Harrisburg car accident attorneys immediately. Understanding your rights and responsibilities can make a significant difference to the outcome of your case. Call (717) 229-6580 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation.