Distracted Driving – Oregon Bans Hand-Held Cell Phones

Oregon joined a number of states in attempting to reduce the number of deaths and injuries from distracted driving, by banning the use of hand-held cell phones while driving.  As of January 1, 2010, it is illegal to drive a motor vehicle and use a hand-held cell phone in Oregon.

The ban applies to talking and texting while the car is moving and stopped.  If caught, the violation will cost the offender $142.  However, hands-free devices are permitted.  Unfortunately, driving with a hands-free device may not be any safer than driving with a hand-held cell phone.

Man_Driving_Texting

Research shows that drivers are four times more likely to be involved in a distracted driving car accident when they are using a cell phone.  Research also shows that hands-free devices are not more safe because the conversation itself creates the distraction. A Harvard study indicated the use of cell phones while driving accounted for more than 2,600 deaths and more than 330,000 significant injuries.

Months ago The New York Times ran a series of articles about the danger of distracted driving while using a cell phone and the federal government’s knowledge of the danger, which it withheld from the public until recently.  For more information, go to The New York Times article “Drivers and Legislators Dismiss Cellphone Risks” and “U.S. Withheld Data on Risks of Distracted Driving.”

While driving and talking on a cell phone is very convenient, and perhaps a way of life for many people, it is highly dangerous and now illegal in Oregon.  Please consider the risks when you get behind the wheel and drive safely.

Distracted Driving Can Lead to Wrongful Death and Catastrophic Personal Injury Lawsuits?

As cell phone usage increases more and more causation links between distracted driving and car accidents are being established. To learn more about Oregon Wrongful Death or Catastrophic Personal Injury lawsuits visit our Wrongful Death Practice Area,  Catastrophic Personal Injury Practice Area, or visit our Wrongful DeathFAQs or Catastrophic Personal Injury FAQs to find answers to the following questions:

  • What is an Oregon wrongful death or catastrophic personal injury lawsuit?
  • What are the causes of a wrongful death?
  • Who can file an Oregon wrongful death claim?
  • Is there a time frame for filing a wrongful death or catastrophic personal injury claim in the state of Oregon?
  • What types of compensation may be included in a wrongful death action?
  • How is the settlement distributed?

If a member of your family has been fatally injured or suffered a catastrophic injury by another person’s negligence, recklessness or intentional conduct, such as distracted driving, you need to contact a Portland Personal Injury Attorney.  I work on contingency fee basis (meaning: I don’t get paid unless you do), and provide aggressive, professional legal representation. My initial consultations are always free, so call me at (503) 444-2825, or email at travis@mayorlaw.com to discuss your case.

Travis Mayor, Oregon Personal Injury Attorney

Personal_Injury_Attorney_Travis_MayorI represent Oregon wrongful death, personal injury, and accident victims in the Portland Metropolitan Area, Multnomah, Clackamas and Washington Counties, and throughout the state of Oregon. I provide this Blog as an educational and informational service for Oregon residents – it is not intended to be legal advice, as every case is unique and should be accurately evaluated. If a family member has been fatally injured and you would like a FREE professional consultation with an attorney to discuss your options and legal rights, call me at (503) 444-2825, or email at travis@mayorlaw.com to learn more about your legal rights.

Learn more at: www.mayorlaw.com