
TACOMA ATTORNEYS FIGHT FOR PARTIES HARMED WHEN DRIVERS TALK OR TEXT
As a leading personal injury law firm in the state of Washington, Rush, Hannula, Harkins & Kyler PLLC supports efforts to minimize cell phone use by drivers. Since 1959, we’ve been helping victims of auto accidents throughout the state. In recent years, we’ve seen the terrible consequences of cell phone use behind the wheel of passenger cars and commercial vehicles.
WHAT IS THE LAW ON CELL PHONE USE BY DRIVERS IN WASHINGTON?
Studies have shown that the impairments associated with using a cell phone while driving can be as profound as those associated with driving with a blood alcohol level of 0.08 percent. In other words, using a cellular phone while driving can be just as dangerous as driving drunk. Researchers have also calculated that sending or receiving a text message takes a driver’s eyes off the road for an average of 4.6 seconds. Imagine driving blindfolded at 55 miles per hour for the length of a football field.
To help prevent distracted driver accidents, Washington has banned the use of handheld mobile phones for all drivers. Novice drivers are not permitted to use even hands-free devices. Texting while driving is illegal for all drivers.
CELL PHONE USE WHILE DRIVING ESPECIALLY DANGEROUS FOR TEENS
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, cell phone use is still prevalent among drivers despite states’ attempts to limit it. The NHTSA estimates that during daylight hours, approximately 660,000 American drivers are using cell phones or manipulating other handheld devices. Teen drivers seem to have the most disconcerting smart phone habits:
- One-quarter of teen drivers respond to one or more text messages every time they drive.
- An estimated 20 percent of teens and 10 percent of parents report engaging in multi-message text conversations while driving.
This behavior often has terrible consequences. Teen drivers already must cope with a number of risk factors, including:
- Poor hazard detection
- Low risk perception
- Impulsive risk-taking
- Not wearing seatbelts
- Alcohol and drug use
- Boisterous passengers
Adding cell phones to that mix is a recipe for disaster: cellular phone use is reportedly the source of distraction for 21 percent of distracted teen drivers involved in fatal car accidents.
Ask our Tacoma car accident attorneys about cell phone-related accidents in Washington
If another driver’s cell phone use caused an accident in which you or a loved one was harmed, you have a right to full compensation. The skilled trial lawyers at Rush, Hannula, Harkins & Kyler PLLC can help you hold that driver accountable. To schedule a free consultation and case evaluation, call us at 253-383-5388 or contact our office online.
Get Started
Do you have a case?
At Rush, Hannula, Harkins & Kyler PLLC we have the skill and experience to take on a wide range of personal injury cases throughout Washington state. From motor vehicle accidents to workplace injuries – our reputation and success rates keep opposing counsel on edge.

Frequently Asked Questions
We have answers to some of the most common Washington personal injury questions. These are resources for injury victims.
Do I need a lawyer to file a personal injury lawsuit?
It is not necessary to retain a lawyer to file your personal injury lawsuit. You should base your decision to involve an attorney on a reasonable assessment of the pros and cons. Rush, Hannula, Harkins & Kyler PLLC is a highly reputable personal injury law firm that has served Washington since 1959. We deliver value to our clients that far outweighs the fees we collect. But before you retain any attorney, you have to be satisfied that the benefits exceed the costs. We offer these points for your consideration.
What is the statute of limitations in Washington for personal injury?
How much does a personal injury lawyer cost?
How do I file a personal injury lawsuit in Washington state?
Our Impact
3,000+
Success Stories
The change you want to see happens when your story goes beyond the courtroom and makes an impact after the case is closed.
Let Us
Fight
For Your Story
We will demand the justice you deserve with relentless pursuit. On your side, is a firm ready and able to win.
