Distracted driving accounts for about 2.5 million car crashes worldwide. Eight to 9% of fatal car accidents are due to distracted driving, and in 2022, 3,308 people lost their lives in motor vehicle accidents involving distracted drivers. (NHTSA)
Distracted Driving: A Serious Hazard on Our Roads
Distracted driving refers to any activity that takes a driver’s attention away from the road. Distractions take many forms, meaning anything can be a distraction. Common examples include talking on the phone or texting while driving. These behaviors greatly increase the risk of accidents. Texting, in particular, is recognized as one of the most dangerous forms of distracted driving.
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What is Distracted Driving?
A distracted driver is someone whose focus is split between driving and another activity. This divided attention can make the driver less observant, unable to react appropriately, or unable to control the vehicle safely, endangering everyone on the road. For example:
Visual distractions: Eyes are taken off the road to read roadside signs or look at themselves in the mirror- Manual distractions: Hands are taken off the wheel when eating, drinking, or changing the radio station
- Cognitive distractions: Mind is taken away from driving when involved in any distracting activity, especially using a cell phone to text, email, or talk
The Risks of Distracted Driving
- Distracted drivers may not drive a consistent speed, follow at safe distances or or may drive erratically, swerving in his or her lane (unable to stay within their lane).
- Research indicates that taking your eyes off the road for just two to three seconds can significantly increase crash risks.
- Every day, 9 people in the United States are killed in crashes involving a distracted driver.
- Distracted driving claimed the lives of 3,308 people in 2022.
- Cell phones are one of the primary reasons drivers are so distracted. It takes the brain 13 seconds to refocus after using a cell phone.
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Cell Phone Laws: A Step Toward Safer Roads
Cell phone and the broader electronic device laws are more common in the U.S. today.
- Hand-held Cell Phone Use: 24 states, D.C., Puerto Rico, Guam, and the U.S. Virgin Islands prohibit all drivers from using hand-held cell phones while driving. All are primary enforcement laws—an officer may cite a driver for using a hand-held cell phone without any other traffic offense taking place.
- Text Messaging: Currently, 48 states, D.C., Puerto Rico, Guam, and the U.S. Virgin Islands ban text messaging for all drivers. All but 2 have primary enforcement. Of the 2 states without an all-driver texting ban, 1 prohibits text messaging by novice drivers
Cell Phone Laws in Missouri
In Missouri, it is illegal to hold or support a cell phone or an electronic communication device in your hand, lap, or other parts of the body while driving on Missouri roads.
Drivers can make or receive calls via hands-free devices, such as:
- Using Speakerphone
- Connecting their phone to the vehicle
- Using aftermarket Bluetooth devices
In most cases, functions that cannot be activated, deactivated, or initiated with a single swipe or touch are in violation.
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Trusted Car Accident Attorneys to Build Your Case
Whether you are a driver, passenger, or pedestrian injured in a distracted driving accident, you need an ex[eroemced car accident attorney in Kansas City who is knowledgeable and well-versed in investigating accidents.
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- Over 80 years of combined experience
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Serious injuries, sometimes fatal, can result from distracted driving accidents. Some injuries may require immediate treatment, while others may require long-term treatment. Our car accident attorneys have represented hundreds of victims.
We know what to look for to build a case for you. From identifying key evidence at the crash site to ensuring all your financial needs are addressed, we work tirelessly to build a strong case on your behalf. Throughout the process, you’ll receive personalized support and attention.
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Receive a Free Evaluation from Experienced Car Accident Attorneys
If you have been injured by a distracted driver, let the attorneys at Nash & Franciskato help you obtain the compensation you deserve. Serving Kansas City and all of Missouri, the Nash & Franciskato Law Firm will fight for your rights. Contact us today at (877) 284-6600 for a free, no-obligation evaluation of your case.
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Resources for You
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Editor’s Note: Originally published December 20, 2015. This page was reviewed for content and accuracy on August 18, 2022. It was updated and republished on March 28, 2025.