Most people are familiar with the laws that ban the use of hand-held cell phones while driving. These laws have been passed by many states in an effort to reduce the number of distracted driving car accidents that occur daily on our nation’s roadways. Some New Jersey legislators now are calling for additional laws that would target other distracted driving, including applying eye makeup, eating fast food and reprimanding your children, by making distracted driving itself an offense.
Already approved by the New Jersey Assembly’s Transportation Committee, Bill A4461 seeks to ban drivers from engaging in “any activity unrelated to the actual operation of a motor vehicle in a manner that interferes with the safe operation of the vehicle on a public road or highway.” Drivers who engage in such distracted driving would face fines up to $800.00 and even driver license suspension. The bill’s broad language does not include a specific list of activities that would constitute distracted driving, but rather leaves it up to the discretion of individual police officers.
It is unclear whether the New Jersey legislature will ultimately pass the bill. Opponents cite the vague nature of the legislation as a major stumbling block for passage. We will continue to monitor this important legislation.
The New Jersey Car Accident Attorneys at Geoffrey B. Gompers & Associates Handle all Types of Distracted Driving Claims
If you or a loved one has been involved in a car accident that was caused by distracted driving, the experienced Philadelphia car accident attorneys at Geoffrey B. Gompers & Associates will work tirelessly on your behalf to ensure that you receive all the compensation to which you are entitled. Our offices are conveniently located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and Voorhees, New Jersey. Contact our law offices today at 215-567-6600 for a free consultation or submit an online injury. We respond promptly 24 hours a day/7 days a week.