Distracted driving laws in Connecticut

Distracted driving can lead to serious car accidents that harm victims and their families which is why it should always be avoided. Unfortunately, distracted driving behaviors include a variety of behaviors drivers engage in everyday which do not make them any less deadly. Distracted driving behaviors can also be considered negligence if they cause a car accident.

It is important for drivers to be familiar with what is considered distracted driving behaviors and for victims to be familiar with the legal protections and remedies available to them if they are injured by a distracted driver. In Connecticut, it is illegal for drivers to use any hand-held mobile electronic device while driving. Addition restrictions apply to Connecticut drivers who are ages 16 and 17 who are prohibited from using any mobile electronic device while driving even if it is hands-free.

In general, distracted driving behaviors refer to any non-driving activity drivers engage in while behind the wheel. There are three categories of distracted driving including visual distractions which remove the driver’s eyes from the roadway; manual distractions which remove the driver’s hands from the steering wheel; and cognitive distractions which remove the driver’s attention and focus from the roadway. Texting while driving is considered especially dangerous because it combines all three types of driver distraction.

Being injured unexpectedly by a distracted driver can seriously harm the victim and result in monetary losses and other damages as well. Personal injury legal protections may help hold a negligent distracted driver accountable and get injured victims and their families the help they need with the unexpected losses they have suffered.