Under Florida Statutes § 316.305, texting while driving is illegal, and using a handheld device in school and construction zones is strictly prohibited. If a driver violated these laws at the time of the crash, they may be liable for damages.
At Lytal, Reiter, Smith, Ivey & Fronrath, we understand how distracted driving impacts accident claims. If you’ve been injured in a distracted driver crash, proving phone use during the accident can strengthen your case. Additionally, apps designed to prevent distracted driving may play a role in establishing liability and ensuring safer roads. Keep reading to learn more, then call a West Palm Beach car accident lawyer at (561) 655-1990 today.
How distracted driving apps impact car accident claims
Distracted driving apps serve two key purposes in car accident cases:
- Proving liability against a distracted driver – If an at-fault driver was using an app for texting, social media, or navigation at the time of a crash, app data and phone records can be used as evidence.
- Demonstrating safe driving habits – If you were involved in an accident and use an app to prevent distractions, this data could help prove you were driving responsibly, potentially reducing your liability.
Popular apps that help prevent distracted driving
To combat distracted driving, developers have created apps that limit phone use while driving, encourage safe behavior, and provide accountability features. These apps not only promote safer roads but may also play a role in legal claims involving distracted driving accidents.
1. LifeSaver
The LifeSaver app locks a driver’s phone while the vehicle is in motion, preventing texting, social media use, and non-essential notifications. It also features a rewards system, encouraging drivers to stay focused on the road.
How it can impact a car accident claim:
- If the at-fault driver had LifeSaver installed but disabled it, this could suggest negligence.
- If you, as the accident victim, were using the app properly, it could support your claim of responsible driving.
2. Dont
Dont is a monitoring app designed for parents and fleet managers, allowing them to enforce usage restrictions while someone is driving. The administrator receives a notification if the driver attempts to use restricted apps.
How it can impact a car accident claim:
- Data logs may provide key evidence of phone usage if a driver ignored Dont’s restrictions and caused an accident.
- For commercial drivers, employers can use the app’s data to verify compliance with safety policies.
3. EyezUp
EyezUp uses GPS tracking to detect when a vehicle is moving and blocks texts, calls, and social media notifications. The app allows customization, so users can receive only essential alerts while driving.
How it can impact a car accident claim:
- If an at-fault driver had EyezUp but failed to activate it, this may suggest reckless behavior.
- If you were using EyezUp and still got hit by another driver, your app data could help prove you were not distracted at the time of the crash.
4. Drivemode
Drivemode provides a hands-free interface in Honda and Acura vehicles, allowing drivers to use their phones via voice commands and gestures rather than manually handling them. It merges navigation, music, and communication features into a distraction-free system.
How it can impact a car accident claim:
- If an at-fault driver was actively using their phone manually instead of hands-free, this may strengthen a negligence claim.
- If you were using Drivemode’s hands-free features, it can serve as proof that you were operating your vehicle safely.
5. OnMyWay
OnMyWay rewards drivers for staying off their phones while driving. The app automatically disables texting when the car is in motion and tracks miles driven distraction-free.
How it can impact a car accident claim:
- If the at-fault driver had OnMyWay installed but did not use it, this may show a failure to follow safe driving practices.
- If you were using OnMyWay, you may have GPS data proving you were not distracted at the time of the crash.
How distracted driving apps provide evidence in accident claims
When pursuing a car accident claim, proving distracted driving can significantly impact the case. Mobile app data, phone records, and GPS logs can serve as key pieces of evidence, helping determine liability.
Sources of distracted driving evidence include:
- Cell phone records – Show call logs, text timestamps, and app usage at the time of the crash.
- Police reports – Officers may note signs of distracted driving or issue citations.
- Traffic and surveillance cameras – May capture the driver looking at their phone before impact.
- Eyewitness testimony – Passengers or bystanders may have seen the driver using their phone.
- GPS and app data – Navigation or phone-locking apps may provide timestamps proving or disproving distraction.
How Lytal, Reiter, Smith, Ivey & Fronrath can help
At Lytal, Reiter, Smith, Ivey & Fronrath, we understand the devastating consequences of distracted driving accidents. Our legal team has extensive experience proving negligence, gathering app data, and securing compensation for victims.
Why choose us?
- Decades of experience handling car accident claims
- Access to expert witnesses and digital forensics specialists
- Aggressive legal representation to hold distracted drivers accountable
- No fees unless we win – you don’t pay unless we recover compensation for you
If you were injured in an accident caused by a distracted driver, contact us today for a free consultation. Let us fight for your rights and help you secure the compensation you deserve.
