Despite repeated warnings, endless statistics and anecdotal evidence as to the dangers of being a distracted driver, some people in Minnesota and throughout the nation still cannot resist the temptation to look at their devices when behind the wheel. There are a variety of reasons for them doing this, and the activities range from the understandable but still unadvisable to the preposterous. Accidents will continue to occur while people are texting and driving and engaging in other distracting behaviors when behind the wheel. Those who are involved in a crash or lose a loved one in these types of car accidents must be aware of how to have a full investigation and seek compensation for their losses.
Law enforcement is increasing its vigilance in trying to stop drivers from engaging in these activities and have implemented a zero-tolerance initiative during the Minnesota State Fair and into the beginning of the school year. Drivers who are distracted will be ticketed. Law enforcement began cracking down on distracted drivers right before the fair and pulled motorists over when they were spotted using their phones or were paying attention to something other than the road.
Officers reportedly witnessed one driver using his knees to steer as he held the phone with both hands. Another was doing the opposite of what he was supposed to by going through red lights and stopping at green lights. Because there are so many pedestrians and bicycle riders near the fair, law enforcement is particularly focused on these individuals and keeping them safe. Given the number of crashes that have involved pedestrians and bicyclists in the state in 2016 – 190 with 120 injuries and two fatalities – it is a problem authorities are eager to solve.
The crackdown on distracted driving does not have an end date. There is a state law saying that drivers are not allowed to use their devices while behind the wheel for any reason – even if they are stopped at a red light – with fines if they are caught doing so. Despite this attention paid to drivers who are distracted, the trend is likely to continue. When there is a car accident because of this behavior, those who have been injured or lost a loved one will face significant costs, emotional pain and lengthy problems. Speaking to a legal professional about a lawsuit could be vital to being compensated and is probably the first call that should be made.
Source: KARE 11, “Distracted driving crackdown targets state fairgoers,” Ivory Hecker, Aug. 27, 2017
