Mobile Phone Use Crash Statistics in Arizona

Distracted driving remains a leading cause of crashes across the country, and Phoenix vehicle accident attorneys see it all the time. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the state ranks 26th for fatal distracted driving incidents.No matter where you are in the country, distracted driving is a consistent problem. 

The most recent statistics from the Arizona Department of Transportation reveal more than eighty deaths due to distracted driving in a single year, with more than 8,600 crashes because of the issue. However, it’s unclear how many of these accidents occurred strictly because of mobile phone use. 

Underestimating Statistics

While there are dozens of deaths and thousands of crashes due to distracted driving, the truth is that the actual number is likely much higher. Oftentimes, these causes of neighborhood collisions in Phoenix are under-reported. Many drivers are reluctant to admit they were distracted, particularly when it involves mobile phone use like texting, navigating, or checking social media.

Failure to yield crashes in Phoenix are another common cause of preventable accidents, often happening at intersections when drivers are too distracted to notice traffic signals or pay attention to the right of way rules. In the worst possible cases, the distracted driver doesn’t live to tell their side of the story. This silence means the true scope of distracted driving is likely far worse than what the data really depicts.

Texting While Driving

With how common distracted driving is these days, you might wonder who’s most likely to be doing it. According to the NHTSA, it’s younger drivers. People under the age of twenty-four are significantly more likely to text behind the wheel and either cause a crash, or come dangerously close. 

In fact, the NHTSA says young people are 44% to 49% more likely to text and drive compared to older age groups. It’s a risky habit that’s far too common among the youngest drivers on the road. The takeaway is simple: putting the phone down can prevent crashes and save lives.

Distracted Driving Laws in Arizona

Arizona officially went hands-free back in 2021, passing a law banning drivers from holding or touching their phone (or other distractions) while they’re behind the wheel. If caught, these drivers can be pulled over right then and there. You may face a fine or a ticket, especially if you’re a repeat offender.

The consequences of distracted driving go far beyond a ticket. A momentary lapse in attention can result in a serious crash with long-term consequences. 

What to Do After a Distracted Driving Accident

Involved in a crash caused by a distracted driver? You’re not alone, and you don’t have to handle it alone, either. These types of accidents can be incredibly overwhelming , leaving you shaken up, injured and unsure of what to do next. 

At Gage Mathers, our legal team understands the complexities of distracted driving cases. We assist clients with collecting evidence, navigating insurance claims, and pursuing compensation, so they can focus on healing and recovery.

About the Author

Joseph D'Aguanno

Guided by the belief that being a highly skilled specialist in a narrow field is better than being ordinary in everything, Joseph “JD” D’Aguanno leads Arizona’s best personal injury law firm in Phoenix, AZ. Having extensive cross-training in pre-litigation negotiations and trial lawyer skills, with decades of experience, JD strives to provide clients with the most valuable legal services a personal injury lawyer can provide. Under his direction, Gage Mathers Law Group is an award-winning personal injury law firm providing aggressive representation to victims of a car accident, medical malpractice, dog bite, motorcycle accident, and other injurious events. Gage Mathers is trusted by thousands of lawyers and clients throughout the country because of their reputation for getting clients the maximum compensation they deserve.

Years of experience: Over 24 years
Bar number: 020421
Location: Phoenix, AZ
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