A 21-year-old man died and four others were injured in an Oklahoma car accident. According to a news report in The Tulsa World, the fatal car accident occurred five miles east of Durant on U.S. 70. The 21-year-old man was driving as he was texting on his cell phone, Oklahoma Highway Patrol officials say. He drove the 2002 Ford off the right side of the road, overcorrected, and then ran off the left side of the roadway. The vehicle rolled one and a quarter times.
The driver was ejected from the vehicle and died at the scene. Officials also believe he may have been under the influence. Two 18-year-old female passengers in the vehicle sustained head and internal injuries. A 20-year-old woman and a 19-year-old woman were transported to an area hospital in stable condition. One other 21-year-old male passenger was uninjured.
Distracted or intoxicated drivers cause an overwhelming number of car accidents in the United States. According to the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), in the year 2009, driver distraction caused accidents that resulted in 5,474 fatalities and 448,000 injuries. According to recent studies, text messaging while driving creates a crash risk 23 times worse than driving while not distracted. Teen drivers are more likely than other age groups to be involved in a fatal crash where distraction is reported.
Distracted driving is negligent driving. If you or a loved one has been injured in an Oklahoma car accident involving a distracted driver, the experienced Oklahoma car accident attorneys at The Maples Law Firm can help you better understand your legal rights and options. If you or a loved one has been hurt by a negligent driver, please call our offices at 1(888) 226-6159 for a free and comprehensive consultation.
