The nation has seen a sharp increase in traffic fatality rates in recent years. While insurers have said that many of these accidents have resulted from distracted driving, they are also claiming that distracted driving and traffic congestion are related.

Does traffic congestion cause distracted driving?

Robert Gordon, senior vice president at the Property Casualty Insurers Association of America, blames traffic congestion for the increased numbers of traffic fatalities and injuries, reports The Seattle Times. He states that traffic fatalities and injuries are increasing in urban areas where there is traffic congestion, and decreasing throughout the country in areas that do not have a traffic congestion problem.

He claims that one reason this is occurring is that people are more likely to take their phones out and send a quick text, check their email, catch Pokémon, check their GPS, or even begin an episode of their favorite show on Netflix.

Why is checking your phone in traffic so dangerous?

Because of sites like Distraction.gov, people are aware that sending a text while driving at 50 miles per hour is dangerous; however, many people assume that sending their boss an email while at a stop light or stuck in traffic is not.

However, in some cases, it can be even more dangerous. Because cars are closer together in traffic, it increases the likelihood of an accident occurring.

In addition, when you put down your phone when the car in front moves, you are still distracted. The American Automobile Association reports that texting, sending an email, or even using the hands-free option on your phone continues to distract you for up to 27 seconds after you put the phone down.

This is especially problematic when a car is directly in front of you or if you need to make an evasive maneuver.

What can I do if I was involved in a distracted driving accident?

Distracted driving accidents

are all too common in Fort Lauderdale. If you or a loved one was involved in a serious or fatal car accident, you may be eligible to file a claim for injury compensation.

To have a valid claim, you must be able to prove that the driver was behaving negligently. Because texting and driving is illegal in Florida, you can use this is an example of negligence. Per Florida Statute § 316.305, phone records are admissible as evidence of negligence in personal injury or wrongful death cases.

Obtaining these records can be difficult for the average person. We can help.

If you or a loved one was involved in a distracted driving crash in Fort Lauderdale, our attorneys can help you manage your case — from obtaining evidence to communicating and negotiating with insurers

Call Montero Law Center to schedule a free consultation with a car accident lawyer today: 954-767-6500.