Cellphone use is one of the common causes of distracted driving, and distracted driving is one of the top causes of motor vehicle accidents in Illinois and nationwide. However, only 1% of more than 43,000 traffic fatalities in 2021 were caused by drivers distracted by their cellphones. This is according to data released by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
How the data is collected
Typically, cellphone data is not released publicly by phone companies. Furthermore, most people won’t actually admit to using a phone prior to a wreck, which means that they aren’t cited as the cause of most accidents. However, according to the NHTSA, about 8% of nonfatal crashes were caused by cellphone use. Therefore, it is logical to believe that a greater number of fatal auto accidents are also caused by phone use.
Phones can tell on their owners
Smartphones have a stunning level of efficiency as it relates to gathering data about their owners. Apps, online browsers and other tools installed on a phone are constantly gathering information that can be used for targeted advertising campaigns. Phones may also make use of GPS or similar tools to provide accurate directions or for other purposes. Therefore, it’s believed that the truth about cellphone use prior to a collision could be easier to find if authorities are willing to spend the time and money needed to analyze a mobile device.
If you’re in an accident caused by a distracted driver, you may receive compensation for your losses. You may also be entitled to a financial award from other parties depending on the facts of your case. Typically, claims are negotiated outside of court.