Distracted driving is a significant threat to Indiana’s drivers.
Because of this, Indiana’s legislators have passed a number of laws to reduce the number of distracted drivers on the road.
The Problem of Distracted Driving
Distracted driving causes unthinkable numbers of injuries and deaths every year.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 3,208 people died in U.S. traffic crashes involving distracted drivers in 2024.
Distracted driving includes any of the following behaviors while driving:
- Texting
- Dialing a phone
- Talking on a phone
- Using a GPS
- Eating or drinking
- Grooming
- Being distracted by interacting with passengers
- Taking your eyes off the road to pay attention to something outside of the car, other than the road and traffic
Types of Driving Distraction
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention identifies three main types of distraction:
- Cognitive distraction (taking your mind off the road)
- Visual distraction (taking your eyes off the road)
- Manual distraction (taking your hands off the wheel)
Any of these distractions can cause an accident.
Indiana’s Hands-Free Driving Law
Indiana’s hands-free law generally prohibits holding or using a telecommunications device while operating a moving vehicle. Hands-free or voice-operated technology may be used.
A driver may also hold or use a device to call 911 to report a bona fide emergency. Indiana’s transportation department explains these rules and navigation options in its hands-free driving FAQ. Hands-free use can still distract a driver, so keep your attention on the road.
Penalties for Distracted Driving
Indiana has enacted a series of penalties for distracted driving behaviors.
Texting and driving can lead to a fine of up to $500. In addition, drivers who are caught handling a device while driving are subject to 4 points being added to their license. The Indiana BMV says points generally remain active for two years after conviction and that 20 points result in a one-month suspension; an approved driver safety course may provide a point credit under certain conditions.
What to Do If You Were Injured By a Distracted Driver
Because distracted driving is so everyday, injuries caused by distracted driving accidents are also common. If you were injured by a distracted driver who took their attention from the road, it is important to seek legal assistance to confirm who was at fault and hold the at-fault driver accountable.
Following any motor vehicle accident, you should take the following steps:
- Contact the authorities, check for injuries, and follow their instructions. Indiana law sets out duties to stop, provide information, and offer reasonable assistance; the steps required depend on the circumstances.
- Gather evidence, including photos and video. Later, you may also collect evidence from security footage, witness testimonies, and vehicle data.
- Seek medical treatment, even if you don’t think you are injured. Injuries can appear within a few hours to a few days after the accident.
- Hire an attorney to support you throughout the aftermath of the accident and keep you informed of your rights and options. A personal injury attorney is your advocate!
Flores Law Group–Indianapolis’s Premier Distracted Driving Accident Attorneys
At Flores Law Group, we serve drivers in Indianapolis and the surrounding areas.
Our job is to help drivers get the compensation they deserve when they have been injured in an accident because of another driver’s fault. That includes distracted driving.
To receive a free car accident consultation, fill out our online form or give us a call at 317-426-4228.
