As New York car accident attorneys, we are glad to report that an effort to gather lobbyists against efforts aimed at distracted driving has apparently collapsed.
The New York Times reports that a Washington law firm had been attempting to form a coalition of lobbyists, including cell phone makers, mobile device manufacturers and car companies, that would stand against state laws aimed at reducing the risks of distracted driving.
It is a significant issue for some device manufacturers. And, while mobile phone makers no longer market their products as “car phones,” they have been slow to adopt a more overt message about the dangers of using a cell phone or text messaging while driving.
The effort to establish the lobbying group drew loud protest from U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood, who held a press conference this week slamming the group.
Shortly thereafter, a statement from the law firm backed away from the proposal.
“We are pleased that the concept has met its goal of expanding dialogue on distracted driving, therefore the proposed coalition is no longer being pursued,” the statement said. “We commend Secretary LaHood for his leadership in bringing a comprehensive view to this complex issue.”
The government’s distracted driving website,www.distraction.gov, places heavy emphasis on the dangers of using a cell phone or text messaging while driving. Other forms of distracted driving mentioned include eating, drinking, talking to passengers, grooming, reading and using other in-car electronics.
Nationwide, an estimated 6,000 motorists are killed and more than 500,000 are injured each year in accidents caused by distracted driving. Only drunk driving and speeding are responsible for more crashes.
If you have been injured in a car accident in the New York City or Long Island areas, contact the Law Offices of Nicholas Rose to discuss your rights. Call 718.261.0549.
