Handheld phones have been banned for drivers in Florida. It’s been this way since 2019, so all drivers are expected to understand this law. You’re not allowed to use a handheld device in the car. In some cases, perhaps, hands-free devices can be used, but that’s all.
When people talk about these types of bans, they will often say that the ban is for texting and driving. You’re not supposed to read, type or send text messages while driving your car. This is clearly a distraction that takes your eyes off of the road, takes one hand off of the wheel and even creates mental distractions.
What other distractions are there?
But it’s very important to realize that texting and driving is not the only distraction a phone creates – not by a long shot. Here are a few other activities people engage in that can be just as distracting and that could also cause accidents:
- Making a phone call
- Taking a picture or a video
- Browsing social media profiles
- Checking their email
- Getting started on work
- Using the GPS
- Choosing music to stream in the car
In fact, some of these things are even more common than texting and driving. Most people listen to music every time that they drive, and a driver who is trying to create the ultimate playlist in the car is still distracted. Ideally, drivers will begin setting everything up on their phones before pulling out of the driveway, but many still do it on the go.
Have you been injured in an accident caused by one of these drivers? If you have, it’s important that you understand all the legal options at your disposal. You may deserve compensation.