What are Wisconsin’s Laws on Texting While Driving?

Texting while driving can cause significant distractions, which can lead to serious accidents on the road. If you or a loved one has been injured in a Wisconsin accident caused by a driver who was texting, you might be able to seek compensation for damages. 

What are the Dangers of Texting While Driving?

When you’re on the road, you should pay attention and focus on the road, but some drivers become distracted when checking their phones while driving. If someone is texting or using their phone behind the wheel, they might not be able to react in time to avoid a crash. 

Distractions fall into three main categories: visual, manual, or mental. Texting or using while driving can cause the following: 

• Increased risk of accidents: Using a cell phone behind the wheel significantly increases the possibility of being involved in a car accident because it delays a driver’s reaction time and reduces awareness of the surroundings.
• Inability to anticipate and respond: Texting or using the phone while driving can limit the driver’s ability to anticipate and react appropriately to situations, such as a pedestrian crossing the road or an oncoming vehicle.
• Loss of control: Diverting attention from the road to texting can result in running red lights, failing to notice sudden changes in traffic, or drifting into other lanes.

What Are Distracted Driving Laws in Wisconsin?

Distracted driving laws in Wisconsin make it illegal for drivers to operate a motor vehicle while occupied with any activity that can interfere with the immediate task of driving. According to these laws under Statute 346.89, a driver may not perform any other activity that reasonably appears to interfere with an individual’s ability to drive safely.

Texting while driving is banned for all drivers.  Additionally, drivers with probationary licenses and instruction permits are not allowed to use hand-held devices when driving. Violations of Wisconsin distracted driving laws can result in a traffic ticket for inattentive driving which can add demerit points to your record and increase insurance premiums.   

Contact Natasha Misra Law Today for Help

If you were hurt in a Wisconsin accident caused by a driver using a cell phone, contact a car accident attorney as soon as possible.

At Natasha Misra Law, our Milwaukee car accident lawyer, Natasha Misra, will walk you through the justice corridors to ensure you are compensated. Call our office at (414) 210-3834 or get in touch online for a free consultation and get started.