It’s no secret that drivers these days are inundated with any number of potential distractions every time they get behind the wheel. Whether it’s talking on the phone, configuring a GPS navigation system or just changing the radio station, the majority of drivers likely participate in distracted driving at some point during the day. Although anything that takes a driver’s attention from the road can be considered a distraction, cellphones have become synonymous with distracted driving. Texting or viewing a cellphone behind the wheel not only significantly increases the odds for an accident, it’s also illegal in Louisiana.
Details from a recent incident
A recent accident that seriously injured a garbage worker in Jefferson Parish was caused by an alleged distracted driver. The accident happened just before 9 a.m. at the intersection of Shrewsbury Court and River Road. According to reports from Louisiana State Police, a garbage truck had stopped to pick up a load of garbage when the truck was rear-ended by a sedan.
Authorities said a garbage worker was hit by the sedan and seriously injured. Reportedly, the worker lost his leg because of the crash. Police said the driver of the sedan was distracted by a cellphone at the time of the accident. The driver was arrested and charged with negligent injury and texting and driving, reports said.
Help available for victims
Despite all the public awareness campaigns and warnings about the dangers of distracted driving, it seems that far too many drivers fail to heed these warnings. Fortunately, there is help available for anyone in Louisiana who has suffered injuries or the loss of an immediate family member as the result of a distracted driving accident. By speaking with an attorney and filing a claim, victims and families could obtain deserved and much-needed financial relief.