Distracted Driving in Woodbridge

Distracted driving is a serious problem on the roads of Woodbridge, across Virginia, and throughout the rest of the country. According to National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) data, over 3,300 people were killed in one recent year in accidents resulting from driver distraction.

What is the definition of distracted driving? Any activity that takes a driver’s attention from the primary task of safely operating their vehicle is considered a distraction. Distracted driving could involve looking away from the road, taking hands off the wheel, or focusing on anything other than driving.

Every day, drivers in Woodbridge face distractions that put themselves, their passengers, and other road users at risk. When you are involved in a car accident with a distracted driver, it can leave you severely injured and unsure of your legal rights and options. The distracted driving accident lawyer at D. Michael Mullori, Jr., Attorney at Law, stands ready to pursue legal action against the responsible party and demand full compensation for your losses and expenses.

Contact us now or call (703) 762-2142 to set up a free consultation with Mike Mullori to discuss what our law firm can do to help you after a distracted driving crash in Woodbridge.

What Are Some Examples of Distracted Driving in Woodbridge?

Motorists traveling through the Woodbridge area face many distractions that can take their attention away from driving.

The three broad categories of distractions behind the wheel are:

• Visual – This type of distraction involves taking your eyes off the road. It can cause you to miss seeing other vehicles, pedestrians, or objects ahead.
• Manual – Manual distractions involve taking your hands off the wheel. They include actions like reaching to grab an object or adjusting the radio.
• Cognitive – These distractions take your mind off driving. They include daydreaming, worrying about personal issues, or being deep in thought while driving.

These distractions increase the risk of accidents and make the roads less safe for everyone.

Common distractions that cause accidents in our area include:

• Cell phone use – Using a smartphone to text, make calls, or browse the internet can lead to a dangerous situation.
• Eating or drinking while driving – This can take your hands off the wheel and your focus off the road. Spilling food or drink can create an acute distraction.
• Reaching for items – Stretching or turning to retrieve items in the car, like a bag or sunglasses, can easily cause a driver to lose control.
• Adjusting vehicle controls – Small tasks like adjusting the air conditioning, GPS, or radio can quickly become dangerous if they occupy too much of your attention.
• Talking to others – Talking to passengers, especially during emotional or intense conversations, can take your mind off the task of driving. Dealing with children in the car can be an especially significant distraction.
• Personal grooming – Activities like shaving, brushing your hair, or applying makeup in the driver’s seat create a significant distraction, even in jammed traffic common around Woodbridge at rush hour.

Focusing on events outside the car – for example, looking at a previous collision or “rubbernecking” – is another common distraction that can lead to accidents. When drivers are paying attention to accidents involving other vehicles, for example, it can lead to abrupt braking or swerving. Each of these behaviors increases the likelihood of an accident. Driving while distracted, even for a moment, can have serious consequences.

What Is the Law on Distracted Driving in Virginia?

Virginia drivers have a general responsibility to avoid causing accidents and harming others. However, the state does not have specific laws in place regarding several types of distractions. No specific law says it is illegal to eat or change the radio while behind the wheel. However, this does not ignore the fact that these actions can be dangerous and have serious and life-changing consequences. However, there are laws regarding using cell phones while behind the wheel.

Texting while driving is illegal under Virginia law. It is a primary offense, which means a law enforcement officer can stop a texting driver for that offense alone – the driver does not need to be in violation of other traffic laws.

In 2021, Virginia enacted laws on cell phone use while driving a moving motor vehicle. The hands-free driving law prohibits holding a phone while driving, which includes texting, making calls, or using social media. Drivers must use a hands-free device if they need to make a call. Additionally, specific rules apply to certain drivers, such as commercial drivers and young drivers, to further reduce risks. Violating these laws can result in significant penalties.

How Much Is a Cell Phone Ticket in VA?

If you are caught violating Virginia’s distracted driving laws, you could face fines and additional consequences. For a first offense, the fine is $125, while a second or subsequent offense can result in a $250 fine. Additionally, if you are caught driving while distracted in a highway work zone, the fine increases to $250, even for a first offense. The penalties aim to discourage distracted driving and make roads safer for everyone.

In addition to the financial impact, these violations can affect your driving record and potentially raise your insurance premiums. That is one reason Virginia takes distracted driving seriously, as lawmakers hope to encourage drivers to stay focused and avoid unnecessary accidents.

What Should You Do If You Encounter a Distracted Driver in Woodbridge?

If you’ve seen a distracted driver while traveling in the Woodbridge area, you know just how dangerous it can be. Thankfully, there are a few steps that you can take to reduce the danger a distracted driver poses.

Examples include:

• Keeping your distance – If you notice a distracted driver swerving or driving unpredictably, maintain a safe following distance.
• Avoiding confrontation – Do not try to engage with the distracted driver or draw their attention to their behavior. Focus on your safety instead.
• Reporting the driver – If the situation is dangerous, pull over to a safe spot and report the distracted driver to local authorities.
• Practicing defensive driving – Stay alert and be prepared for sudden movements or stops from distracted drivers.

If you are involved in an accident with a distracted driver, it is essential that you seek legal help from our Woodbridge distracted driving accident lawyer right away.

How Can D. Michael Mullori, Jr., Attorney at Law, Help You?

After an accident caused by a distracted driver, Woodbridge car accident lawyer Mike Mullori is here to help. Our team will investigate the accident and gather evidence while pursuing fair compensation for your injuries and other losses. When you work with Mike Mullori, you will have a dedicated advocate on your side who can guide you through the legal process.

Get in touch with us today or call (703) 762-2142 for a free consultation. Let our compassionate legal team help you seek the justice and support you deserve.