It is important to follow the rules of the road when driving in Washington State to prevent accidents and save lives. According to the Washington Traffic Safety Commission, distracted driving is reported in 20% of fatal crashes, though experts believe the real number is much higher due to underreporting. Despite the known dangers, current laws carve out exceptions for certain drivers, including those contacting emergency services, some transit workers, and even emergency responders under urgent circumstances.
A recent piece published in The Bellingham Herald explores Washington’s distracted driving laws and the critical exceptions that still allow for some phone use behind the wheel. While public support exists for limiting phone use behind the wheel, enforcement gaps still remain.
GLP Attorneys has seen firsthand how these exceptions, combined with the false belief that multitasking is safe, often result in devastating consequences. Drivers often assume they’re capable of managing texts, calls, or even navigation while driving, but the data tells a different story: reaching for a ringing phone increases crash risk nearly fivefold, and dialing while driving makes a crash twelve times more likely.
We urge all drivers to remember: following the law is the minimum standard, not the best practice. If you or a loved one has been injured in a motor vehicle collision involving distracted driving, it is essential to understand your rights.
Contact an Experienced Personal Injury Attorney Today
GLP Attorneys has worked with personal injury clients for over three decades to obtain optimal results and receive justice in their automobile, motorcycle, and truck driving accident cases. We know how difficult it is to recover from an automobile accident, and we are with you every step of the way.
If you’ve been injured in a distracted driving incident, contact Tirra Seely and let our team help you navigate your legal options.
