New Law Would Require Police to Note Driver Distractions on Accident Reports
New Jersey legislators are considering a bill today that would require police to include information on accident reports concerning driver distractions, a step toward compiling statewide statistics on distracted driving. However, the law could have consequences for drivers accused of taking their eyes off the road.
The bill identifies some driver distractions you might expect, like talking on a cell phone, using a GPS device, or tinkering with the car stereo. But it also identifies some more unusual distractions, like using a "facsimile machine," or distractions due to "personal grooming." The bill also requires the Commissioner of Transportation to use the information to compile annual reports on distracted driving, but it could have consequences for drivers.
Drivers who are distracted could face charges that carry a range of fines and potentially result in points on their licenses leading to increased insurance rates. Even if a police officer was not present at the time of an accident, another driver can make a complaint if the responsible party was either careless or reckless while operating his or her vehicle.
However, there are options for drivers who are accused of driving carelessly or recklessly that could reduce their penalties and limit their liability in the case of an accident. If you think a car accident might expose you to costly traffic violations or a potential lawsuit, speaking with an attorney could help save time and money.
