Distracted driving is the practice of driving a motor vehicle while engaged in another activity.
The major causes of distracted driving include eating, drinking, putting on makeup, changing the radio and using on a cell phone while driving.
AAA now says that distracted driving accounts for 25 to 50 percent of all accidents.
Arizona has reported 741 cars crashed that may have been caused by distracted driving in 2017, according to the Arizona Department of Public Safety.
According the Skusen, Gulbrandsen & Patience PLC Law Firm, distracted driving is attributed to approximately 11 percent of all crashes through Arizona.
Arizona, Montana and South Carolina are the only states that still don’t have distracted driving laws, but DMV.org says the following exceptions apply:
School bus drivers aren't allowed to use cell phones while driving.
If a driver is swerving or showing other erratic behavior because they're using their phone, they can receive a distracted driving citation.
But text messaging while driving is prohibited in the cities of Phoenix and Tucson.
Senate Bill 1261 imposes a fine between $25 and $99 for a first offense and between $100 and $250 for additional offenses. Some cities and counties in Arizona have enacted their own bans, but too many motorist are still paying more attention to their cell phone screens than the highway roads.
If the person using the cell phone or similar device is involved in an accident that causes death or serious injury, the offense could rise to the level of a misdemeanor. Even then, the maximum penalty would be four months in county jail and a $4,000 fine.
Some tips to avoid distractions:
Finish meals before or after the trip.
If you need to inspect your highlight or add a second layer of lipstick, just pull over.
Keep your phone in your pocket or purse if it doesn't function as a hands-freed device.
Be present on the road while driving in Arizona. Let's combat distracted driving and save lives!