Missouri Motor Vehicle Accidents Caused by Texting While Driving Addressed by Lawmakers
It has been reported in stltoday.com story that the Missouri Legislature recently passed a bill that makes it illegal for anyone 21 years of age or younger to text while driving. The article claims that Illinois lawmakers are considering similar legislation in the very near future that will ban people of any age from composing or sending text messages, browsing the Internet, or downloading from a phone while driving a vehicle. The sponsor of the Missouri bill, Sen. Ryan McKenna, D-Crystal City, said that he has seen many people come close to Missouri car accidents because they were texting while driving.
Recent cases across the country where pedestrians and bicyclists died after being struck by drivers who were distracted by reading or composing texts spurred the legislation. "It's become so much a part of their life that they don't even think about it," said Illinois state Sen. Pam Althoff, R-Crystal Lake, a co-sponsor of the bipartisan bill in that state. “They need to understand that they're driving this 2,000-pound vehicle, and it could do significant damage as they're texting."
Personal communication devices represent another distraction for drivers, which make our roads more dangerous for other drivers, bicyclists and pedestrians. Under the new Missouri legislation, if someone is struck and injured or killed by a vehicle driven by someone under 21 years old distracted by sending or reading text messages, the driver may face additional criminal charges for that act. This new legislation will also make it easier for proving negligence in a motor vehicle accident claim brought by the victim or victim’s family.
If you or someone you care for has been injured or killed by a driver texting while operating a motor vehicle, call the Missouri personal injury law firm, Page Cagle. These skilled St. Louis auto accident attorneys can help hold those responsible for the accident and help you receive the compensation you deserve for injuries and damage you have suffered. To schedule a free consultation with experienced Missouri personal injury attorneys, call Page Cagle today at 866-620-5757. You can find more information by visiting www.injuredclient.com.
