oklahoma cell phone law
The Dangers of Cell Phone Use on Oklahoma Roads
Victims of Oklahoma car accidents have the right to pursue compensation for their losses from the at-fault driver under state law. Generally, the victim will have to prove that the other driver caused the accident through his or her careless or reckless behavior. Drivers who caused an accident through acts of negligence can be held financially responsible for their actions. Injured victims can also seek compensation from distracted drivers who cause an accident. The law views distracted driving as negligent driving.
Cell phones and other electronic devices are among the most common causes of car accidents involving distracted driving. Under Oklahoma law, school bus drivers are banned from using a cell phone or sending a text message while on the job. All drivers who are on a learner’s or intermediate license are banned from using a handheld phone or sending a text as well. However, there is no statewide ban in Oklahoma that prevents all drivers from using a cell phone while driving. Drivers who cause injury accidents while driving, in addition to facing citations or criminal charges, can also be held civilly liable by injured victims.
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New OK Law Hopes to Discourage Distracted Driving Accidents
A new bill, House Bill 2276, was signed into Oklahoma law and will take effect on November 1, 2010 according to ABC news affiliate, KXII. The law is designed to prevent drivers from using electronics while behind the wheel and in turn, prevent car crashes. While not a specific cell phone or texting law, the bill gives law enforcement the power to cite a motorist for use of an electronic device if the officer observes an immediate danger posed by driver inattention. For example, if a police officer sees a driver texting, which is causing him or her to swerve, go off the road or drive too close to other vehicles, that officer may pull the driver over. However, if a driver is using a cell phone but not posing any danger by doing so, he or she will not receive a citation.
The Oklahoma Department of Public Safety saw a decline in 2007 and 2008 of Oklahoma distracted driving auto accidents; however, in 2009, that rate increased by 20 motorists. Law enforcement as well as state legislators are hoping that the new law will help drivers be more aware of their surroundings and apply safe driving practices on Oklahoma roads and highways.
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