Tuesday, April 10, 2012

LAPD, CHP Beef up Enforcement on Distracted Drivers

 As part of the second National Distracted Driving Awareness Month which is being held annually, both the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) and the California Highway Patrol (CHP) are making a double effort in cracking down distracted drivers.

Both agencies have been directed to enforce a “zero tolerance” policy towards drivers whom they consider to be driving recklessly as a result of multi-tasking while driving.

Distracted driving is a very serious issue, according to LAPD officer Lt. Ronald Katona. In fact, according to the US Department of Transportation, distracted drivers, or those who use mobile phones are 23 times more possibly to be involved in a car accident than those who firmly keep their eyes on the road and their hands on the wheel.

Distracted drivers who will be caught violating the rule will be penalized and required to pay a monetary relief of $159, while each succeeding offense will have a minimum cost of $279.

Therefore, before handling your mobile phones for calling, talking or texting, think twice since authorities are now strictly observing violators.

Furthermore, activities such as eating or applying makeup or even simply tuning on the radio can lead to a violation, said CHP spokesperson Rick Quintero.

There is no particular citation for distracted driving. However there will be an absolute violation once a driver was caught over speeding or staggering due to a distracting activity. In such event, authorities may pull them over, Quintero added.

Probably, observing the people being too much distracted by the technology has led the authorities to warn drivers about distracted driving. Driving is actually a multi-tasking activity as it is. Therefore, adding more distracting activities while driving will definitely put drivers, as well as passengers, into high risk of accidents.

An injury attorney in Los Angeles totally agrees on the authorities’ precautionary measures to keep drivers from being distracted while driving, as well as to prevent further injuries and death caused by the same.