Distracted driving is a danger to everyone on the roadways. A new law going into effect just before Christmas in Mantua, Ohio, will consider holding a pet while driving to constitute distracted driving. The law will also make holding a cellphone while driving a primary offense, which means that authorities can pull over and cite a driver for holding their cellphone while driving. Prior to this law, distracted driving was a secondary offense, meaning a motorist had to first be lawfully pulled over for another purpose.
Authorities Mantua will begin citing drivers under the new law just prior to Christmas. For first time violators, they will be charged with a minor misdemeanor. If a driver violates the ordinance twice in a year, or if the violation results in a car accident that results in injury, the driver will be charged with a third-degree misdemeanor. Use of Bluetooth or other hands-free devices does not violate the law.
Car accidents caused by distracted drivers can result in serious injuries, harm and consequences for victims. The aftermath of a distracted driving-related car accident is not something that victims or their families have to face on their own. Personal injury legal protections can help injured victims of car accidents seek compensation for the harm they have suffered from the distracted driver responsible for their injuries. A citation for distracted driving may be useful if the accident victim pursues a personal injury claim for damages.
Victims of distracted drivers may be able to seek compensation for their physical, financial and emotional damages including medical expenses, lost wages and pain and suffering. The personal injury legal process provides a wealth of resources and remedies to victims of car accidents to ensure they receive the help they need throughout the recovery process.