New California Ruling: Holding Your Phone for GPS While Driving Is Now Illegal

Distracted driving continues to be a leading cause of traffic accidents across the United States, and California is taking a firm stand against it. Recently, a new ruling on an old law made it illegal for drivers to use navigation apps while holding their phones in their hands.

This change addresses an ongoing issue in California, particularly in densely populated regions such as the San Fernando Valley and Los Angeles County, where heavy traffic and frequent roadwork contribute to a high incidence of car accidents.

Distracted driving, especially involving cell phone use, poses a significant risk to public safety, exceeding mere inconvenience. It can lead to serious accidents, injuries, and long-term consequences.

How Is Distracted Driving Defined in California?

Distracted driving is a term used to describe any activity that takes a driver’s attention away from the road. It’s more than just texting or talking on the phone; any action that causes a driver to divert their focus from driving, whether visually, manually, or cognitively, can be classified as distracted driving.

Here are the three primary types of distraction:

• Visual: Taking your eyes off the road, such as looking at your phone screen or checking GPS navigation.
• Manual: Taking your hands off the wheel to text, dial a phone number, or manipulate your phone or controls in the car.
• Cognitive: Losing focus mentally, such as thinking about personal issues or being distracted by conversations, including those on the phone.

With the rise of smartphones, drivers often engage in all three types of distractions simultaneously, leading to dangerous consequences.

The New California Law and Its Impact on Distracted Driving

California’s recent legal change has made it clear that operating a phone while driving is illegal, no matter the function. Under the new law, using navigation apps while holding your phone is now prohibited, addressing a key issue that was not previously fully addressed in earlier laws.

Before 2016, holding a phone to one’s ear was illegal, but using it for navigation was not necessarily considered a violation. In the case of Nathaniel Maranwe, who was fined for using his phone for navigation, the law was unclear on whether this should be penalized.

However, following Maranwe’s case, California lawmakers clarified the intent of the 2016 law, which was to prohibit all handheld functions of wireless phones while driving. An appeal in the 6th District Court of California was decided in support of the fine in June.

For drivers in the San Fernando Valley, this clarification is particularly important. Traffic congestion is already a problem, and using a handheld phone only exacerbates the danger. By using hands-free options like phone mounts and apps that require a single swipe, drivers can help prevent accidents.

Here’s a look at the common injuries resulting from distracted driving accidents:

• Head Injuries: Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), concussions, or skull fractures.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: These can lead to paralysis or long-term disability.
• Broken Bones: Fractures in the arms, legs, and ribs are common in car accidents.
• Whiplash: This neck injury is often a result of sudden stops or impacts.
• Internal Injuries: Damage to organs, bleeding, or damage to the chest area.

The impact doesn’t stop with physical injuries. Victims face long-term consequences, including ongoing medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, lost wages, and a diminished quality of life. Families who have lost loved ones in distracted driving accidents are left to cope with the emotional and financial toll, and they deserve to know their legal rights.

Why Distracted Driving Is a Serious Issue

While texting and driving is often the first thing people think about when it comes to distracted driving, the truth is that distracted driving encompasses more than just that. The problem is widespread, with increasing accident rates, according to Los Angeles Magazine, especially in densely populated areas like the San Fernando Valley.

Here’s why distracted driving is such a serious issue:

• Rising Accident Rates: Distracted driving has contributed to a sharp increase in accidents. About 8% of fatal crashes and 13% of injury crashes involve distracted driving, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports.
• Increased Risk in Traffic: In high-traffic areas like the San Fernando Valley, drivers are more likely to be distracted by phone calls, navigation apps, or other distractions due to the stop-and-go nature of driving in busy conditions.
• Complications in Claims: Distracted driving accidents can complicate legal claims. In such cases, it may be more challenging to prove that the driver was distracted, especially if there is a lack of immediate evidence or witness testimony. Insurance companies may also attempt to downplay the severity of the accident, which can further complicate the claim process.

When a driver is distracted and causes an accident, they are typically held liable for the resulting damages. However, there are some situations where liability can be more complicated, especially in cases where the driver was working at the time of the crash. A lawyer can explain the circumstances and liability in a specific crash scenario.

How to Recover Compensation After a Distracted Driving Accident

The process of recovering compensation after a distracted driving accident can be complex and challenging. A victim must gather evidence, prove negligence, and navigate the intricacies of dealing with insurance companies.

• Filing a Claim: The first step is to file a claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance company. However, claims involving distracted driving can often be contested, making it harder to receive the compensation you deserve.
• Proving Negligence: In distracted driving cases, proving that the driver was distracted at the time of the accident can be challenging without the proper evidence.
• Insurance Negotiations: Insurance companies are often more interested in minimizing payouts than in ensuring victims are fairly compensated. Having a lawyer on your side can make a huge difference in securing a fair settlement.

Handling a distracted driving accident claim without legal representation can be overwhelming. Insurance companies may try to deny or reduce your claim, or the at-fault party may dispute liability. Navigating these challenges without a lawyer is difficult and can result in a lower settlement or even no compensation at all.

Hit by a Distracted Driver? Contact Oaks Law Firm Today.

Distracted driving is a serious issue that continues to affect drivers across California, particularly in the San Fernando Valley. The new law prohibiting phone use while driving clarifies the legal landscape and highlights the dangers of distracted driving.

Victims of distracted driving accidents deserve to have their voices heard and receive the compensation they deserve. With offices in Sherman Oaks and Woodland Hills, Oaks Law Firm is here to listen and act on your behalf.

If you or someone you love has been injured by a distracted driver, don't navigate the claims process alone. Contact Oaks Law Firm for a free consultation. Let us fight for the compensation you deserve. Time is critical—act now to protect your rights!

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