Using a handheld cell phone while driving is a primary offense in Washington DC, meaning drivers can be pulled over and cited by police if they are caught. Texting while driving decreases attentiveness and increases the likelihood of a car accident. The human brain is able to process only a certain amount of information at a time. This is why drivers are required to focus all of their attention on the road and their surroundings. Anything can happen at any time, so it is important to limit any and all possible distractions, including cell phones, this includes using a cellphone at a traffic light.
The following restrictions apply to drivers and cellphone use in DC:
The legal repercussions for drivers using their cellphone in DC are as follows:
Texting while driving can create a hangover effect for drivers because it can take up to 27 seconds to refocus after using a phone. People assume it is safe to quickly look at their phones if they are at a stop sign or traffic light, but a lot can happen in the time it takes to refocus. As a result of the hangover effect, drivers experience inattentive or perceptual blindness. This occurs when the brain is unable to register people or objects in plain sight because of distraction. Reaction times are slower because of the hangover effect.
Drivers can avoid the hangover effect by following some commonsense guidelines:
If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident, reach out to the Washington DC car accident lawyers at the Law Offices of Duane O. King. We care about the welfare of our clients, and we will aggressively fight to ensure they receive the best possible compensation. Call us at 202-331-1963 or contact us online for a free consultation. Located in Washington, DC, we work with car accident victims in Prince George’s County, including Laurel, Beltsville, Adelphi, College Park, Greenbelt, Mitchellville, Woodmore, Greater Upper Marlboro, Springdale, Largo, Bowie, Capitol Heights, District Heights, Forestville, Suitland, and Seat Pleasant, Clinton, Oxon Hill, Temple Hills, and Fort Washington.
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