Pennsylvania law prohibits texting on a mobile device while operating a moving vehicle. The Keystone State’s laws refer to these personal items as Interactive Wireless Communication Devices. When drivers interact with an IWCD, it may cause a distraction that leads to a serious accident. Motorists may only text on a IWCD if they first pull their vehicle over and park legally.

As described by the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation, distractions may come from any activity that prevents a motorist from reacting quickly to traffic. Other driving distractions include eating, self-grooming, changing music and engaging in conversation. Without an eyewitness, however, these distractions may be difficult to prove in an accident liability case. 

Distracted driving may lead to legal action

When a driver loses focus — even if only for a few seconds —an otherwise avoidable collision may occur. If an impact results in a serious injury, a severely harmed individual may sue to hold a motorist liable for damages. When filing a legal action, the harmed party may ask to introduce evidence to the court to help prove a distracted driver caused a crash. 

Evidence may include data from a mobile device

The court may request a mobile device’s call records and location data. As noted by the American Bar Association, GPS data may pinpoint a driver’s location at the time of the accident. If call records show that a driver used the device when the crash occurred, the court may order the motorist at fault to compensate an injured party. 

A motorist suspected of operating a vehicle while distracted may face criminal charges in addition to civil liabilities. Regardless of the cause, vehicle accidents carry the potential to result in life-altering events that may leave a harmed individual with disabilities, lost income and overwhelming medical bills.