In Los Angeles and across the U.S., Americans are always on the go. While putting on makeup or eating breakfast may seem like an easy way to save some extra time, you better think twice before doing so. Driving while distracted is illegal in the state of California. Therefore, activities such as applying makeup, eating or any other sort of distraction is illegal, regardless of how skilled you may be. Even if only a small fraction of your attention is taken away, it can still be considered distracted driving.
Below are just a few of the activities that can be labeled as distracted driving:
- Applying makeup
- Using a cell phone
- Changing the station
- GPS
- Talking to passengers
- Eating
- Looking in the mirror
If you are pulled over for distracted driving, you can get even get a citation ranging from $300-$1,000. While this may seem like a steep price to pay for something as simple as eating on your way to a meeting, it serves as a powerful reminder and deterrent from a more serious consequence such as causing a motor vehicle accident or in a worst-case scenario, hitting a pedestrian and causing a fatal collision. It sounds drastic but it is unfortunately true. It only takes one second to make a life changing mistake. While checking your phone for less than five seconds or taking a bite of food seems so harmless, it can result in serious injuries and someone may even pay for your distraction with their life. Drivers take the privilege of driving for granted and it is important we don’t lose sight of that fact. Please do us all a favor and pay attention while driving, for the sake of you, your loved ones and ours!
For any questions pertaining to distracted driving, feel free to contact our law offices.
