Seven people were injured in a bus accident in San Diego after the driver of a pickup swerved into opposing lanes of traffic and struck the bus. The San Diego Union-Tribune reports that the injury collision occurred on North Lake Wohlford Road near Valley Center Road the afternoon of August 28, 2010. California Highway Patrol officials believe that the driver of the pickup truck may have caused the collision because he was distracted by a cell phone. The bus driver and six passengers suffered back and neck injuries, but they are expected to survive. No arrests were made pending an official investigation.

It is indeed fortunate that no one suffered life-threatening injuries in this crash. I wish all the victims of this injury collision a speedy and full recovery.

Distracted Driving Statistics

According to California Highway Patrol officials, the number of citations issued for hand-held cell phones has increased in California – from 7,779 in July 2008 to 12,761 in July 2009. Since the hand-held law became effective, CHP officials have issued a total of 173,616 citations for violations. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), car accidents due to all forms of distracted driving caused 515,000 personal injuries and 5,870 fatalities in 2008, nationally.

Laws and Liability Issues

According to California Vehicle Code Section 23123 (a): "A person shall not drive a motor vehicle while using a wireless telephone unless that telephone is specifically designed and configured to allow hands-free listening and talking, and is used in that manner while driving."

Injured victims in such cases would be well-advised to contact an experienced San Diego personal injury lawyer, who will stay abreast of the official investigation and make sure that their legal rights and best interests are protected. The best personal injury law firms will always offer a free consultation and comprehensive claim evaluation to injured victims and their families.

What can be done to ensure that drivers do not text or use their handheld cell phones while driving? We would like to hear your suggestions on this important issue.

None of the parties mentioned in this article are represented by us at the time this article was posted. The source of our information is cited in the article. If you were involved in this incident and have questions as to your rights and options, call a reputable law firm for a consultation. Do not act solely upon the information provided herein. The BISNAR | CHASE personal injury law firm will provide free, confidential consultation to "not at fault" persons and their family members if you mention your source was the “Personal Injury Law Journal." They can be reached at 866-456-5235 during California business hours.