Is it safe to read and respond to texts or emails at a red light?
gturnercontentcustoms • July 10, 2024

July 10, 2024

Drivers largely understand that it is dangerous to text while driving. Reading emails, scrolling through social media or even manually dialing a phone can be a dangerous form of distraction when driving. Rhode Island, like many other states, has implemented rules against texting while driving.

Despite state statutes making it illegal to hold a phone while driving, quite a few drivers think that they can text while driving if they use certain tricks or tactics. One of the more popular options involves waiting until stopped at a red light to read text messages and respond to them. While that may be safer than looking down at a phone while actively driving, it is not as safe as many people think.

The brain needs time to refocus after texting

The brain commits a large portion of its processing power to the analysis of visual information. Screens tend to be particularly demanding on people's brains. Researchers have determined that someone's focus on a phone doesn't immediately redirect when they set the device down again.

Instead, it takes some time to refocus and prioritize other incoming visual information. If someone picks up their phone to text at a stoplight, they could easily cause a crash related to distraction when the light turns green. Researchers have concluded that the distraction related to mobile phone use persists for approximately 27 seconds after setting the phone back down.

In other words, someone might drive for almost half a minute without being fully focused on their surroundings after they respond to a text or scan an email at a stoplight. Even the use of talk-to-text software may not be as safe as people think it is, as people feel compelled to check their texts before sending them.

The uncomfortable truth is that no one can safely divide their attention between driving a motor vehicle and using a mobile device. People who sustain injuries and crashes caused by distracted drivers often need to take specific steps in their pursuit of accountability.

Pursuing a personal injury lawsuit or negotiating an insurance claim may be necessary when distracted drivers cause preventable collisions. Those who understand traffic laws and safety guidelines can identify when other drivers make unsafe choices in traffic. That information can potentially help them seek compensation after a wreck.

By jcapistrano November 5, 2025
Being involved in a car crash can drain anyone physically and emotionally, especially when trying to understand how fault may affect a claim. In Rhode Island, fault often influences responsibility for damages and compensation. Knowing what types of evidence may support a claim can help provide clarity during a stressful time. Why proving fault matters in Rhode Island Rhode Island generally follows a pure comparative negligence system . his means fault can be shared among drivers, and compensation typically adjusts according to each person’s estimated responsibility. For example, if the claimant is about 20%responsible, any compensation they receive may decrease by that amount. Insurance companies and courts usually rely on evidence to determine who caused or contributed to the accident. Key types of evidence insurers and courts may consider Certain evidence may influence a fault determination. These include: Police reports: An officer’s factual observations and opinion of fault are typically admissible and may influence the court’s decisions on fault. Photos and videos: Images of vehicle damage, road conditions, skid marks, dashcam footage and injuries can clarify how the accident occurred. Witness statements: Eyewitness accounts can provide details drivers may miss and offer perspectives if stories conflict. Driver information: Exchanging and documenting insurance and license details can prevent misunderstandings or false claims. Medical and damage records: Records of injuries and property damage may help show the severity of harm and link it to the crash.  Getting evidence early helps strengthen your account of what happened and supports your claim. If you feel unsure about what to collect or how to use it, a lawyer can guide you through the process and they can make sure nothing important gets overlooked Additional factors that may determine fault Evidence of careless or negligent driving behavior often can help establish whose actions directly contributed to the accident. For instance, proof of the following behaviors may show that a driver failed to operate their vehicle safely: distracted driving, speeding, failing to obey traffic signals or driving under the influence. Data from vehicle black boxes, phone logs or breathalyzer results may also provide insights into what happened before the incident Understanding The Potential Importance of Evidence Knowing how evidence influences car crash claims may give victims more clarity and confidence. Getting the proper legal advice, approaching the process thoughtfully and gathering relevant information generally supports a stronger case for a fair car crash compensation .
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