Distracted Driving — It’s Not Just Cell Phone Use

Any behavior that keeps you from giving your full attention to the road and your surroundings can be considered a distraction. Eating, changing the radio station, putting on makeup, and even talking to passengers can be considered distracting, especially if these behaviors cause or contribute to a car accident.

Although many other states have passed laws that penalize many different forms of distracted driving, Indiana has laws relating to the use of cell phones only. All cell phone use is prohibited for drivers under the age of 18, and texting and driving is prohibited and can result in a $500 fine.

If an individual was driving distracted — even if they weren’t using their cell phone — they may still be held liable for the damages resulting from an accident if it can be proven that the distraction directly caused the accident. If, for example, an accident was caused by an individual who ran a red light because they were unwrapping a sandwich, they may be considered at fault for being distracted and also breaking the law and running a red light.