GET YOUR FREE CONSULTATION

Texting and Driving: A Dangerous Distraction for California Drivers

Frank • Feb 12, 2015
Using a Phone While Driving — Roseville, CA — Frank Penney Injury Lawyers

Read the blog from Frank Penney Injury Lawyers in Roseville, CA below. 


The popularity of mobile phones in recent years has created a big problem for public safety on California roads. Texting while driving is the cause of thousands of injuries and deaths in the US every year.


The California Department of Motor Vehicles reports that there are three types of distracted driving:

  • Distractions that take your eyes off the road (texting).
  • Distractions that take your mind off the road (talking on the phone).
  • Distractions that keep your hands off the steering wheel (helping a child, eating, putting on makeup).


The California DMV cited a study released by NHTSA claiming those driver distractions are the leading cause of most vehicle crashes and near-crashes. 80% of crashes and 65% of near-crashes involve some form of driver distraction.


The U.S. Dept. of Transportation has found that texting while driving creates a crash risk 23 times higher than those driving with full attention to the road and that five seconds is the average time your eyes are off the road when you are texting. Try this for yourself. Close your eyes for five full seconds and imagine driving with your eyes closed for that time. Texting and driving are the same as driving with your eyes completely closed.

California State Laws

A California law against driving while texting went into effect as of 2009. This applies to all forms of text-based communication, including e-mail and instant messaging. The state law now allows adults to use hands-free texting and voice-activated devices found on car dashboards, but teens under 18 cannot use a device of any kind while driving — even if it is voice-activated. (California Vehicle Code Section 23123).


These laws are in place for good reason, given the severity of distracted driving statistics. A 2013 California Office of Traffic Safety survey shows that nearly 70% of California drivers surveyed said they had been hit or nearly hit by a driver who was talking or texting on a cell phone.

Sacramento Texting and Driving Accident

On August 28, 2013, a Sacramento jury awarded $680,000 to a woman seriously injured in a car collision caused by a driver allegedly distracted by a text message (California Superior Court, County of Sacramento, Amy Caldwell v. Ashleigh Hughes, et al. 34-2009-00064793). According to court documents, the driver’s insurance company attempted to settle for $300,000. However, based on the evidence presented at trial, the jury ultimately awarded the plaintiff a verdict of $680,000 plus $77,000 in past wage loss and $316,000 in future damages. Including costs such as medical expenses and interest, the total awarded to the plaintiff was approximately $930,000.


Texting and driving also caused a triple fatal accident in Davis, CA in July of 2012. The California Highway Patrol reported that the driver of a large van transporting patients with cerebral palsy drifted into oncoming traffic because he was texting while driving. The passengers who weren’t killed were severely injured.

Yolo County Police Keeping Eyes on the Road

Unfortunately, drivers of emergency vehicles are just as susceptible to distracted driving accidents, due to an increase in the vehicles’ electronic equipment. The L.A. Times reports that patrol cars, ambulances, and fire trucks were involved in collisions that injured about 140 people in California over the past two years. The Yolo County Sheriff’s Department is among the local agencies that are in the process of testing software that shuts down functions of their patrol car computers once their vehicles exceed 15 miles an hour.

You Have Recourse If Injured in a Distracted Driving Accident

These types of accidents can and should be prevented. Nevertheless, accidents do happen that can cause substantial loss and injury. If you have been injured in a car accident caused by a distracted driver, you can seek compensation for medical expenses, loss of wages, and the need for future surgery and medical treatment. We have a proven record of success in representing victims of reckless driving. Contact us today for your free case evaluation.

No Fee Guarantee!

Our legal team understands that life can be very stressful after an accident of any type. The financial costs of your accident can add to that stress. When you are asking for help, this should make your life easier – not more difficult. That is why you do not have to worry about any upfront legal fees and expenses when you hire Frank Penney Injury Lawyers to handle your California personal injury case.


At Frank Penney Injury Lawyers, Frank Penney and his staff work on a contingency basis. This means you only have to pay a fee if you win your case. We will never charge a fee unless we obtain a settlement on your behalf. No win. No fee. Case closed.


This means there is no risk in asking Frank Penney Injury Lawyers for help. You get to benefit from Frank Penney’s years of experience, knowledge, and success without needing to stress about the cost. Call today to set up a free initial case assessment or to learn more.

When I first contacted the Law Offices of Frank D. Penney after my accident, I was frustrated with car insurance companies, and medical insurance companies; after all, I was in pain. He and his staff put me at ease instantly! It was such a relief to have someone working on MY BEHALF! They were able to settle my case for more than I initially thought it was worth. THANKS AGAIN!!!


- KRISTA H.


Read more client testimonials.

Why Choose Us?

  • If You Don’t Win, You Don’t Pay
  • Free Case Evaluations
  • Over 25 Years of Experience
  • Compassionate and Caring
  • Highly Rated Reviews
  • Proven Track Record
  • 24/7 Availability
  • Quick Response Time
  • And More

Our Recent Blog Posts

By Frank Penney 28 Mar, 2024
Alcohol played a significant role in a rollover crash in Fresno County, according to the California Highway Patrol (CHP). The incident, which occurred at the intersection of Floral and Alta Avenues just north of Dinuba, unfolded around 4 pm on Sunday. Jessica Guerra, 24, from Selma, was driving a Chevy Malibu west on Floral when she failed to stop at a sign, resulting in a collision with a Ford Expedition traveling north on Alta. The collision caused the Chevy Malibu to overturn and land on its roof in a canal. Guerra and a 43-year-old passenger, who were not wearing seat belts, suffered serious injuries and had to be airlifted to the hospital. Additionally, three others involved in the crash sustained minor injuries but are expected to recover. Guerra was subsequently arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol. CHP Officer Carlos Medina provided further details, explaining that firefighters had to extricate the occupants of the Malibu, including a man in his 40s who was partially ejected from the vehicle. While the driver and passengers in the Malibu complained of pain, the two individuals in the Expedition emerged unharmed. Medina emphasized the importance of obeying traffic signs, noting that Floral Avenue had a controlled stop sign while Alta did not. The collision prompted an investigation by multiple agencies, underscoring the severity of the incident and the need for heightened awareness regarding the dangers of impaired driving. As authorities continue their inquiries, the community is reminded of the critical importance of adhering to traffic regulations and abstaining from driving under the influence to ensure the safety of all road users. Experience unparalleled legal representation with Frank Penney Injury Lawyers , the esteemed recipients of the CAOC Trial Attorney of the Year award. With over two decades of dedicated service, our team has consistently delivered record-setting results for accident victims in Northern, Central, and Southern California. Enjoy peace of mind with our no upfront fees policy. Contact us today at 888-888-0566 or through our website www.penneylaw.com for a FREE consultation. Frank Penney Injury Lawyers does not represent any of the parties mentioned above. Nevertheless, we sympathize with the victim and their families in this time of crisis. 
By Frank Penney 28 Mar, 2024
A fiery crash in northwest Bakersfield early Tuesday morning left two individuals severely injured and transported to a local hospital. The collision, which occurred around 1 a.m. at the intersection of Golden State Highway and Seventh Standard Road, has prompted an ongoing investigation by authorities. The California Highway Patrol (CHP) reported the incident, stating that at least one person sustained major injuries in the accident. Video footage from the scene depicts fire crews dousing a mangled vehicle with water, highlighting the severity of the crash's aftermath. Details surrounding the cause of the collision remain unclear, as investigators work to piece together the events leading up to the accident. Witnesses recounted the harrowing scene, emphasizing the urgency of medical assistance as emergency responders rushed to aid the injured. The identities of the driver and passenger involved in the crash have not been disclosed, nor have their current medical conditions. The community awaits further updates from authorities as they delve deeper into the circumstances surrounding this tragic incident. In the meantime, residents are reminded to exercise caution while driving, particularly during late-night hours when visibility may be reduced, and road conditions can be unpredictable. Experience unparalleled legal representation with Frank Penney Injury Lawyers , the esteemed recipients of the CAOC Trial Attorney of the Year award. With over two decades of dedicated service, our team has consistently delivered record-setting results for accident victims in Northern, Central, and Southern California. Enjoy peace of mind with our no upfront fees policy. Contact us today at 888-888-0566 or through our website www.penneylaw.com for a FREE consultation. Frank Penney Injury Lawyers does not represent any of the parties mentioned above. Nevertheless, we sympathize with the victim and their families in this time of crisis.
By Frank Penney 27 Mar, 2024
A chaotic scene unfolded on California State Route 57 near Fullerton as a six-vehicle collision brought traffic to a standstill and left at least one person injured. The incident occurred on Tuesday afternoon around 12:47 p.m., sparking a flurry of responses from authorities. According to reports from the California Highway Patrol, the crash took place on the northbound side of the freeway close to Chapman Avenue. With the severity of the collision, all lanes on the northbound side were promptly shut down, necessitating an hour-long SigAlert to manage the situation effectively. Despite swift emergency responses, the toll of the crash was evident, with at least one person confirmed injured. Details regarding the identity of the victim and the extent of their injuries remained undisclosed at the time of reporting. As traffic congestion stretched for approximately six miles on the northbound side of the freeway, motorists were advised to avoid the area to prevent further gridlock. With investigations ongoing, authorities refrained from releasing additional information regarding the cause of the crash and the total number of individuals involved. The aftermath of the collision serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictability of the roads, urging vigilance and caution from all drivers. As authorities continue their inquiries, anyone with relevant information is encouraged to come forward to aid in the investigation. Until clarity emerges regarding the circumstances leading to the crash, commuters are reminded to prioritize safety and patience while navigating through busy thoroughfares. Experience unparalleled legal representation with Frank Penney Injury Lawyers , the esteemed recipients of the CAOC Trial Attorney of the Year award. With over two decades of dedicated service, our team has consistently delivered record-setting results for accident victims in Northern, Central, and Southern California. Enjoy peace of mind with our no upfront fees policy. Contact us today at 888-888-0566 or through our website www.penneylaw.com for a FREE consultation. Frank Penney Injury Lawyers does not represent any of the parties mentioned above. Nevertheless, we sympathize with the victim and their families in this time of crisis. 
Show More

24/7 Availability – Reach Us by Phone, Email, Chat and More!

If you are involved in any type of personal injury due to the fault of someone else, our experienced team at Frank Penney Injury Lawyers in Roseville, CA can help. We are available to anyone in Northern California 24/7! Give us a call today to learn more at 888-888-0566. We will fight for your rights!

No matter where you are in Northern California, or how you reach us, we will be there for you 24/7!

You Can Bank on Frank!

Business Ad — Roseville, CA — Frank Penney Injury Lawyers
No Risk, No Fees, Guaranteed — Roseville, CA — Frank Penney Injury Lawyers
Share by: