Drivers in Buffalo have many different road hazards to contend with, from heavy snowfall along Interstate 90 or Interstate 290 to downtown traffic. Add to these challenges distracted drivers. Distracted driving includes anything that keeps a driver from keeping full attention on the road. Everything from Snapchat, eating, or putting on makeup can cause the driver to stop paying attention to the roadway and focus on something else. On Buffalo’s roads, even seconds of distraction can cause a devastating collision.

Distracted driving is risky. Rear-end collisions happen frequently, as drivers pick up their phones before coming to a full stop. Distracted driving can also lead to unsafe merging, sideswiping another car or missing an exit ramp. With many drivers “multi-tasking” when they shouldn’t be, defensive driving becomes even more important for those who wish to avoid colliding with Buffalo’s distracted drivers.

Distracted driving can even come from normal activities, such as eating or drinking in the car. Other distractions can include safety features for your car or electronic device, such as turn-by-turn directions, voice commands, or other interactive features in newer cars.

Distracted driving laws in New York can be classified differently than texting and driving laws. A police officer can issue a citation if they notice a driver holding or operating a phone or other electronic device.

Even if your distracted driving hasn’t caused an accident, New York state law still regards it as a danger. Unfortunately for many Buffalo drivers, just a couple of distracted driving tickets can result in a suspension of their license. Each subsequent traffic ticket can mean heavier fines for the distracted driver.

If you were injured by a distracted driver, the Law Offices of William Mattar can provide counsel to help you. Give us a call at (844) 444-4444 to discuss your case with our car accident lawyers today.