Texting and driving is a dangerous form of distracted driving, causing one out of four accidents due to distracted driving. There are no national laws on texting and driving, but most states are making efforts to combat it.

Distracted driving is commonly defined as any activity that takes the driver’s attention from the road. These activities may include playing with a radio, grooming, eating, talking to other passengers or checking on children. Texting while driving at 55 mph is adequate time for a driver to cover the length of a football field.

While texting only takes a few seconds, it increases the risk of accidents by 400%. Texting and driving is six times more likely to cause auto accidents than from driving under the influence. Texting and driving can damage the vehicle, add points to the driver’s license and raise insurance rates.

Drivers and passengers who are injured by texting and driving accidents may seek damages from at-fault drivers. The plaintiff must prove that the driver acted negligently and caused injury. If the driver was working for an employer at the time, the employer could be liable for damages.

In either case, the injured driver may seek to prove the negligence of the driver by requesting cellphone records. If possible, statements by witnesses who saw the driver texting and driving are often helpful proof. Sometimes, drivers make incriminating statements to others, such as saying they were on the phone or being overheard.

It’s important for drivers and passengers to seek medical attention immediately after a crash since some injuries may not show for several days. Injured victims who file a successful lawsuit may be able to recover damages for lost wages, mental anguish and medical costs.

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