Picture this: you’re driving down the highway, juggling a sandwich in one hand and your cell phone in the other while trying to steer with your knees. It might seem like a savvy way to save time, but in reality, multi-tasking while driving means more trouble than it’s worth.
In fact, it’s a ticking time bomb that endangers not just yourself but also every other driver on the road. We live in a world where we’re constantly pulled in multiple directions, but some activities require our undivided attention, and driving is one of them.
In this article, we’ll delve into the risks of multi-tasking while driving and why keeping your focus on the road is essential.
What are the Dangers of Distracted Driving?
It’s a confession most of us can make – we’ve all been guilty of multi-tasking while driving. Whether sneaking in a quick meal, fixing your hair, or indulging in-car karaoke, we’ve all been tempted to take our attention off the road.
But the truth is, distracted driving is extremely dangerous. Taking your focus away from the task can lead to accidents and even fatalities.
Examples of dangerous multi-tasking while driving:
- Enjoying a meal
- Applying makeup
- Grooming your hair
- Reading a document
- Streaming videos on your phone or computer
- Texting or messaging
- Changing music on the go
- Reaching for items in the glove box
- Retrieving something from the floor
- Writing notes or emails while driving
- Taking selfies
- Attending to pets in the car
Multi-tasking While Driving Means Trouble: Here’s What You Need to Know
Multi-tasking behind the wheel refers to any endeavor that pulls your full focus away from the roadway. It’s beyond merely tuning in to your favorite program or pondering your next move. Performing multiple tasks while driving is a prime example of careless driving, deemed unlawful by Florida law.
Careless driving is defined as a lack of carefulness and prudence considering the road and all surrounding circumstances. When you multitask while driving, you need to give careful and proper regard to the road. If you’re caught in the act, law enforcement can issue a ticket for careless driving, violating Florida law 316.1925 [1].
Florida Multi-tasking While Driving Law
Although Florida doesn’t have a dedicated law that explicitly addresses multi-tasking while driving, it does have a law that prohibits all forms of careless driving. According to Florida law 316.1925, driving without giving complete attention to the road and potential hazards is illegal.
Multi-tasking while driving can easily fall into this category, and some types of multi-tasking may even amount to reckless driving. Therefore, staying focused on driving at all times is important to avoid endangering yourself and others on the road.
Negligence and Multi-tasking Behind the Wheel
Juggling tasks while cruising the road can lead to a dangerous form of carelessness. Negligence in this context refers to a lack of prudence compared to what a reasonable person would exercise in the same scenario. It’s widely agreed that engaging in multiple activities while driving is not reasonable.
In the unfortunate event of a crash caused by a multi-tasking driver, chances are high that they are at fault due to their negligence. This sets the groundwork for pursuing compensation through a third-party claim. However, in Florida, their no-fault system requires severe or permanent injuries to justify legal action against the other driver. Therefore, it’s wise to consult an experienced attorney to determine if your case qualifies for such a claim.
How Do You Prove If the Other Party Was Multi-tasking While Driving?
In the aftermath of a crash, you’re likely focused on immediate medical attention for yourself and any other injured parties, and the thought of investigating the other driver’s actions may not initially come to mind. However, once you’ve addressed everyone’s medical needs, it’s essential to don your sleuthing cap and uncover the evidence necessary to support your claim.
While it may seem like something out of a mystery novel, third-party witnesses can be a game-changer in establishing the other driver’s negligence. Whether it’s someone in one of the cars involved in the accident or a bystander who witnessed the events unfold, their testimony can shed light on what the other driver was doing during the collision.
Another method of gathering evidence is to conduct a deposition of the other driver. Once you’ve filed a formal claim, you can subpoena them to appear under oath and answer questions about their behavior leading up to the accident.
Electronic documentation can also be a powerful tool in building a strong case. By obtaining phone records, you can show that the other driver was texting during the crash. Additionally, scrutinizing their social media accounts could reveal any posts related to the accident that could further support your case.
By leaving no stone unturned and getting creative in your investigation, you can put together a compelling case and increase your chances of receiving the compensation you deserve.
Get the Compensation You Deserve: Call The Law Offices of Pacin Levine Today!
multi-tasking while driving means trouble, but you don’t have to face it alone. If you’ve been injured in an accident caused by distracted driving, The Law Offices of Pacin Levine, P.A. are here to help. Our highly qualified and experienced legal professionals handle all aspects of your claim, case, or lawsuit in Florida, ensuring you get the compensation you deserve. Don’t let the negligent actions of others go unpunished. Contact us today at 1-800-24-7-CRASH (2727) for a free case review.
