What do the apps Snapchat, Pokemon Go, and Waze have in common? They’re all being blamed in-part for auto accidents across the nation, and some believe they could be a major factor in the largest spike in car accident deaths in 50 years. Just ten years ago, talking on cell phones was arguably one of the biggest distractions drivers faced behind the wheel. Then, texting while driving became a concerning issue, as it still is to this day. Now, the use of popular apps are taking the blame for car crashes across the world–and right here in our own backyard.
Several months ago, we explained how Pokemon Go was becoming a danger to drivers after several accidents were attributed to the use of the then-popular game. Now, Snapchat has also been called into question. Snapchat is a popular app among teens and young adults, allowing users to send photos and videos to friends using filters to enhance the pictures. One filter allows users to post how fast they’re moving. The app recently added a disclaimer telling users, “Don’t snap and drive,” but it hasn’t stopped some everyone from using it while operating a vehicle. In fact, the Florida Highway Patrol is investigating a recent Tampa crash that claimed the lives of five people. The passenger in the at-fault driver’s vehicle allegedly posted a Snapchat video of the car clocking in at 115 m.p.h. Police believe the video was posted merely seconds before the vehicle crossed the median and crashed into a minivan carrying a mother and her two children.
In a separate incident, a Georgia woman sent a Snapchat that clocked her vehicle going 113 mph (in a 55 mph zone) before slamming into an Uber driver, who suffered traumatic brain injuries. The woman was quoted staying she “Just trying to get the car to 100 miles per hour to post it on Snapchat.'”
With Florida being home to the worst drivers in the country, the last thing we need are added distractions in the car. Your latest selfie or the next level on your favorite game can wait. Distracted driving has always been an issue that has only continued to grow over the past decade with the uptick of cell phone use behind the wheel. The Ruth Law Team has helped victims injured due to distracted drivers for more than 30 years. If you were the victim of a car accident, call the Tampa Bay auto accident attorneys at The Ruth Law Team at (888) 783-8378.
