Traffic crashes occur in various spots in Encinitas and throughout Southern California more broadly: at intersections, on neighborhood streets, on highways, and even in parking lots. While the area in which a car accident occurs can sometimes point to potential causal factors, there is one common cause for all of these kinds of accidents, which is texting while driving. Although all drivers should now be absolutely certain about the serious risks associated with texting behind the wheel, motorists continue to do it anyway, and in so doing, to cause accidents and injuries. What are some of the key things you should know about car accidents caused by texting while driving? Consider the following information.
Texting While Driving is Unlawful and Negligent
First, you should know that any driver who causes a collision by texting while driving has broken the law by texting while driving and has behaved in a negligent manner for which they can be liable in a civil lawsuit. Under California law, texting while driving is unlawful, and it is a primary violation for which a motorist can be stopped and fined. Making the decision to text while driving is also negligent for purposes of a civil lawsuit — texting while driving is not what a reasonable person would do and is not what a reasonable person would consider to be reasonably safe under the circumstances.