Will the Cell Phone Ban Lead to Fewer Car Crashes? | Seattle Car Accident Attorney

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As a Washington car accident attorney and the founder of Teens Against Distracted Driving, I know just how dangerous it is to text and drive. During my career, I have seen how several seconds of minor distraction can cause some of the most horrifying Washington auto accidents.

In the past year, many states in the U.S. and Canada have passed bans making it illegal to use handheld cellular devices while driving. But just how effective are these new laws in preventing auto accidents? Recent data shows that the number of reported car accidents in British Columbia dropped 13.5% in the last two months.

In March, there were 18,600 crashes in the area, 2,900 fewer accidents than in March 2009. And, in February, there were 17,400 crashes, 2,200 fewer auto accidents than last February.

The cell phone ban went into effect back in January before the start of the 2010 Winter Olympics. It is possible that more people were using the transit system during that time, which may have contributed to the reduction in car accidents. However, many believe the cell phone ban also played a part in these recent numbers.

Studies suggest that texting and driving is just as dangerous as driving while intoxicated. Texting distracts drivers just long enough to cause some very serious auto collisions.

Because the ban is fairly new, there is not much evidence showing its effectiveness. In some areas, the new law is being treated more seriously than others. It will take time for drivers to catch on and ditch the phones.

This information is provided by Straight Talk Law, where you can order free information on Bellevue auto accidents, purchasing insurance in Washington, and other valuable legal information, offered as a public service by Seattle personal injury lawyer and author Jason Epstein and his Washington auto accident, Tacoma motorcycle accident, and King County wrongful death law firm in Seattle, Washington.