WASHINGTON – U.S. – Teenagers riding as passengers in cars are less likely to speak up about a distracted driver using a cell phone, according to a new survey released Monday by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
The study found that younger passengers were less likely than older passengers to speak up about dangerous drivers using cell phones, the report said. Roughly a third of young passengers 18 to 24 years old said they would say something to a driver who was talking on a handheld phone compared to roughly half of drivers 65 and over who said they would speak up.
“There is no excuse to drive distracted,” Attorney West Seegmiller said. “Drivers who are distracted are as dangerous as those who are under the influence of alcohol, but sadly too many people believe they are the exception because they are a good driver.”
The NHTSA survey polled more than 6,000 drivers and found that approximately 90% of respondents consider a driver who was sending or reading text messages or e-mails as very unsafe.
“Distracted driving is an epidemic on our roadways, and these new findings show that our youngest drivers are particularly at risk,” said Secretary LaHood. “We’re encouraging young people across America to commit to distraction-free driving, spread the word to their family and friends, and speak up if the driver in their car is distracted.”
Orange County Car Accident Law Firm
In California, fatal traffic accidents were down 12% to 2,715 deaths in 2010 compared to 3,090 killed in 2009, according to statistics compiled by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Additionally, national statistics show that traffic fatalities have declined in recent years across the United States, down roughly 3% to 32,885 deaths in 2010 compared to 33,883 killed in 2009.
If you have lost a loved one in a car accident we know that this is a difficult time. We offer our condolences to the family and friends of the victim. For roughly 30 years, the legal experts at Seegmiller Law Firm have represented hundreds of clients who were injured in serious traffic accidents or have lost a loved one.
Our legal team has also handled hundreds of wrongful death claims for families of victims killed in traffic accidents. Our staff is compassionate and understands the pain its clients are going through. We know that this is a difficult time for those who have been injured and for the families of those who have been killed. has a proven track record supported by settlements ranging from several thousand dollars to millions.
There is no cost to clients until our experienced team of lawyers and legal professionals have won your case. Finding the best car accident attorney can mean you will get the settlement you need to get your life back on track. Compensation for your injuries, loss of wages and pain and suffering can’t take away the trauma of the accident, but it can help you rebuild your life.
Call us today at 1-855-ASK WEST to speak with our car accident law firm. Seegmiller Law Firm has offices in California including its headquarters in Irvine. We also have offices outside of Orange County to serve you in Los Angeles, San Bernardino, San Diego, Riverside and in Las Vegas, Nevada.
