Are You Obeying Virginia's New Hands-Free Law?
#HandsFreeVA Effective Jan. 1, 2021
In Virginia, if caught holding holding your mobile device while driving, you can be fined $125, with the price going up to $250 in a work zone. This is a primary offense too, meaning police can pull a driver over for this violation alone. In spite of the fines, police say they’re still seeing plenty of distracted drivers breaking the law.
Learn More: Drive Smart Virginia – Phone Down. It’s the Law.
April is National Distracted Driving Awareness Month
Distracted driving has been on the rise for years. Smartphones have become ubiquitous – so much so that many drivers can’t imagine getting behind the wheel without their devices. While many may not intend to drive distracted, motorists often fail to resist the siren call of their notifications.
Many believe it can’t hurt to take a glance at their phone for a second or two. This is a dangerous misconception. It takes only a second to miss important road signs, emergency vehicles, pedestrians, bikers, and cyclists on the road. A single glance at a phone screen could have devastating results. That’s why April has been designated as official National Distracted Driving Awareness Month.
Strategies to Help You Put Down the Phone When Driving
If you’re hoping to turn over a new leaf and eliminate this dangerous habit, try keeping your phone out of reach while in the car. Simply tucking it into a seatback pocket or in a bag in the backseat can help it out of sight and out of mind while you’re driving. Another option? Hand your phone to a co-pilot who can take over navigation and DJ duties.
Virginia Car Accident Lawyer
The Law Offices of Richard J. Serpe, PC is a Norfolk, Virginia based law firm representing individuals and families in personal injury and product liability matters across the Commonwealth.
For over 35 years, Attorney Richard Serpe has helped injury victims seek the justice they deserve. He’s earned a reputation as a well-respected, hard-working attorney with a tenacious approach to every case he takes on.
Along with his skilled legal team, Richard is ready to fight for you and protect your rights at the negotiation table and in the courtroom.
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We’ve obtained successful settlements and verdicts in Virginia car accident cases of all varieties, including rear-end accidents, commercial truck accidents, auto accidents, bicycle accidents, pedestrian accidents, drunk driving injury, and vehicle-related wrongful death.
Contact our Virginia car accident lawyers if you were injured by a distracted driver (757)-233-0009.