Pennsylvania Increased Penalties For Texting While Driving and How It Matters To Your Truck or Car Accident Case

In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, more than 14,800 crashes in 2015 were caused by texting while driving a car or truck which resulted in 66 deaths. It is clear that Pennsylvania state legislature is attempting to crack down on this issue. Lawmakers believe that it is critical that we make sure that our drivers are aware of the consequences of distracted driving to eliminate deaths caused by this dangerous behavior. According the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, conducted in 2012, 3,328 deaths were caused by distracted driving across the United States. Approximately 421,000 people were injured in accidents involving a distracted driver.

Governor Wolf recently signed a bill putting into effect “Daniel’s Law,” which enhances the penalties for an accident caused by texting while driving resulting in serious bodily injury or death.

Governor Wolf stated “I am proud to sign House Bill 2025 into law which enhances the penalties for distracted driving in Pennsylvania that results in a severe injury, or death, this behavior, which has been allowed to go under-punished for far too long, has been demonstrated to be just as dangerous as drunk driving. Distracted driving has fatal, irreversible, and grave consequences and by signing this bill, I hope to make our roads and highways safer for our citizens, and everyone using them.”

State Representative Jarret Gibbons who was instrumental in advancing the bill stated “It is our hope Daniel’s Law will lead to safer roads by raising awareness of the serious consequences that can happen when you text while driving. I was honored to stand up for the Gallatin family when they came to me after suffering this horrible tragedy. While we cannot bring Dan Gallatin back, at least his family will know that through this law, his loss will help to save lives,”

This law is named for Daniel Gallatin, a father, grandfather, military veteran, and fireman of nearly 40 years who was killed in May of 2013 when his motorcycle was struck from behind by someone who was texting while driving.

According the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 3,328 deaths were caused by distracted driving nationwide in 2012 and approximately 421,000 people were injured in accidents involving a distracted driver.

If you are injured in a car and/or truck accident as a result of someone else’s negligence it is important that you fully understand the consequences of distracted driving as it relates to your case. Our team of Attorneys and O’Malley & Perry Law have handled cases involving car or truck accidents for over 30 years. Contact the Car and Truck Accident Attorneys of O’Malley & Perry Law for your Northeast and/or Central Pennsylvania car or truck accident today 570-348-3711 or info@ohdplaw.com. You’ll want us on your side.