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SpanishWith an awareness of the dangers of drunk driving at an all-time high in California, attention is now turning to the dangers of distracted driving. There are many potential distractions competing for a driver’s attention at any one time, and very few of these are specifically illegal. One of the most commonly cited distractions in vehicle accidents is cellphone usage, but other distractions can include the vehicle’s audio system, food and beverages and conversations in the vehicle.
A large commercial vehicle under the control of a distracted driver can quickly become a deadly weapon. A Shelltown woman’s family was recently left devastated by a senseless truck accident. The 39-year-old mom was walking her 5-year-old daughter and 4-year-old neighbor to preschool when a San Diego Gas & Electric truck appeared to lose control outside her house. The woman managed to push the two girls out of harm’s way before she was crushed and killed by the truck.
The truck driver was not injured in the incident. The daughter was injured but has returned home after a hospital stay. In the meantime, her mother has been hailed as a hero for saving the lives of the girls.
Although the victim’s family says they still have no clue why the truck driver didn’t slow down or stop, NBC now reports that investigators are considering this to be an incidence of distracted driving.
No charges have yet been filed against the driver, though it is possible that the legal process will follow two courses in this case. The state may bring a criminal charge against the driver, especially if he is found to have been distracted by use of a cellphone. In addition, the family may choose to file a civil case for damages against the driver and the truck company.