Back on June 15, 2019, I posted an article highlighting that distracted driving is a major cause of car crashes resulting in serious personal injury and wrongful death.
Thankfully, Massachusetts law is about to change and should make our roads at least a little safer.
Beginning on February 23, 2020, Massachusetts law will go into effect and prohibit the use of electronic devices, including cell phones and tablets, by all operators of motor vehicles and bicycles unless the technology being used is “hands-free.” Until April 1, 2020, police will issue warnings. Then the fines will start.
Previously, texting while driving was illegal but proving that violation was difficult if not impossible. When the new law takes effect, if police merely observe a motorist holding a cell phone while driving then such conduct will likely result in a citation leading to fines, as well as insurance surcharges for subsequent violations. The goal of the new law is to reduce rear-end crashes and other motor vehicle accidents harming drivers, passengers, and pedestrians.
Drivers focused on hand-held cell phones simply don’t pay attention to crosswalks, traffic signals, and other cars or the road. This negligent, reckless habit has led to a significant increase in human pain and suffering, medical expenses, and lost wages. The new law also prohibits the operator of a motor vehicle from reading or viewing text, images or video displayed on a mobile electronic device.
While the new Massachusetts law will reduce the incidents of distracted driving, it will not eliminate this dangerous conduct.
If you, your family members, or friends have been injured or killed by a distracted driver, contact me immediately. I will aggressively represent the injured person and get results. My legal focus for over 37 years has been to maximize financial recovery for car crash victims.