Imagine having your hopes and dreams shattered by a decision to take your eyes off of the road for a few seconds to text on your cell phone. Many young drivers are being forced to face the consequences of their actions. A new video released notes that many state prosecutors are charging teens that cause a crash while they are texting with serious crimes. Instead of spending their summer on vacation these teens will be spending their summer in Jail or prison.
Great Video Regarding Texting and Driving
According to the video, texting and driving has become the leading killer of American drivers. This is a serious issue and most states have laws preventing texting while driving. In Oregon ORS 811.507prohibits drivers from using a mobile communication device while driving. There are exceptions to ORS 811.507, but even a person using a hands free device must be over the age of 18.
Despite these laws, the vast majority of young drivers believe they are good drivers while texting. This false confidence results in these inexperienced drivers taking their eyes off of the road for an average of five seconds for each text message sent or received. Five seconds is a very long time to take your eyes off of the road.
In Oregon, a texting driver that injures another in a crash may be charged with the crimes of assault, reckless driving, reckless endangerment and more serious crimes relating to manslaughter if the texting and driving kills someone. Furthermore, most likely the injured person will be forced to file a lawsuit against the at fault driver if the at fault driver’s insurance company refuses to reasonably compensate the injured individual. Many teens find themselves being the defendant in a lawsuit because their insurance won’t agree to pay a reasonable settlement. This is a difficult position for the injured person and the teen that caused the crash, but the teen must be held responsible for texting and driving and the civil process is a way to do so.
If you or someone you know were injured by a driver that was texting and driving call Portland personal injury lawyer Ross Law LLC at 503.224.1658 for your free personal injury consultation. Jeremiah Ross is happy to discuss your case with you at no cost and no obligation to you. Please remember this post is for informational purposes only and is not to be considered legal advice. Please remember to consult with an Oregon attorney about your case.