Distracted Driving Crashes and Cell Phone Data: What to Know

Distracted driving is a serious problem on Richmond-area roads and highways, and the problem has worsened as smartphone use has become widespread. Virginia has had a handheld cell phone ban in place since 2021, but the law does not always stop motorists from reading or composing texts, or otherwise using their smartphones, while they are supposed to be paying careful attention to the road. According to a recent report in The New York Times, the distracted driving problem as it relates to cell phones is likely much larger than we even know, given that law enforcement agencies in most states are not collecting cell phone data in the aftermath of collisions — even though that data exists.

What should you know about distracted driving crashes and cell phone data? Our Richmond car accident lawyers can tell you more.

Learning More About Cell Phone Data and Distracted Driving Collisions 

Distracted driving accidents caused by smartphone use are likely underreported significantly, based on the information in The New York Times article. As that article suggests, police rarely go through the complicated and often expensive steps of obtaining cell phone data after a collision occurs — even when distracted driving is suspected. As a result, we do not have a full picture of the consequences of technology-related distracted driving accidents that occur.

According to an article in Alexandria Living, the state of Virginia has one of the highest populations of distracted drivers. Indeed, Virginia ranks fifth in the nation for the highest number of traffic fatalities due to distracted driving. Estimates suggest that more than 21 percent of all deadly collisions in the state are due to distracted driving (and that number does not even include all of the cell phone data to which The New York Times article refers).

Seeking Compensation After a Distracted Driving Crash in Richmond 

As you might realize, distracted driving crashes are all too common in Richmond and throughout the state of Virginia. If you were recently injured in a collision caused by a distracted driver who was using a smartphone, you may have multiple options for proving fault — including cell phone data.

How can you seek compensation? It is important to gather evidence at the scene of the crash if possible, including photographs and video evidence, as well as witness information. It is possible a witness saw the other driver using their phone at the time of the collision, for instance. Your car accident lawyer will also be able to seek cell phone data that can show the other driver was sending a text or performing an internet search at the time the collision occurred.

Contact a Richmond Car Accident Attorney Today 

Distracted driving crashes often result in debilitating and life-threatening injuries. It is critical to hold a distracted driver accountable in any crash that has resulted in personal injuries, and our firm is here to help. Depending on the specific facts of your case, you may have multiple options for seeking compensation after a distracted driving collision, including filing an auto insurance claim and filing a personal injury lawsuit against the distracted driver or another liable party. One of the experienced Richmond car accident attorneys at Latham & Martin can speak with you today to learn more about your case and to discuss your options with you. Contact us to get started.

Sources:

nytimes.com/2024/01/26/health/cars-phones-accidents.html

alexandrialivingmagazine.com/news/virginia-drivers-among-the-most-distracted-nationwide/

law.lis.virginia.gov/vacode/title19.2/chapter6/section19.2-70.3/