subject: Pros & Cons Of Requiring Hands-free Devices While Driving [print this page] Car phones are nothing new; they have been around since at least the 1980s. However, these were quite rare, and used only by the very wealthy and well-connected.
With the fall in the price of communications technology, the democratization of the car phone has resulted in new problems as so many people attempt to use cell phones while driving. The liability issues when accidents occur has meant more work for the Colorado car accident lawyer.
What Are The Risks?
According to a study by the American Automobile Association, 98% of drivers think they are competent, safe operators of their motor vehicles yet nearly three-quarters of them are distracted. When it comes to using a cell phone, they not only take their eyes off the road when dialing, they also allow their conversations to distract them often with tragic results. In another study, it was shown that when drivers attempt to "text message," it can lower their reaction time by a whopping 35%. (By way of comparison, a blood alcohol level of .08% lowers reaction time by an average of 12%.)
Are There Any Upsides to "Hands-Free" Devices?
While hands-free cell phones may eliminate the need to dial, the conversations can still cause potentially fatal distractions. Unfortunately, while new Colorado laws that will be enacted in December forbid all texting and make it illegal for teen drivers to use cell phones while driving, they still allows adults to use cell phones under some circumstances.
Personal Responsibility
Regardless of the law, if someone talking on a cell phone was distracted enough to cause an accident in which you were injured and perhaps a family member was killed, it is important to contact a Colorado car accident attorney as soon as possible. You should still be able to able to recover your medical costs and be compensated for your vehicle as well as loss of income.
If you are involved in an accident because the other driver was using a cell phone or other device, you may also be able to go after the insurance company as well. The best Colorado car accident lawyers are those who have worked on behalf of insurance companies and have an understanding of how these companies operate and the tricks they often employ in order to deny claims.
In any event, most Colorado car accident attorneys offer a free initial consultation in order to evaluate your case and will represent you on a contingency basis so you will not have to come up with any money up front.
by: Susan Slobac
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