Can you be held responsible for a car crash that happens miles away because you texted the driver?
A New Jersey appeals court panel says yes — and its ruling this week is notable not just for trying to crack down on texting and driving, but for interpreting the way that technology has reshaped life.
On Sept. 21, 2009, Kyle Best, 18, crashed his pickup truck into a married couple riding a motorcycle after Best’s truck crossed the center line on a curve. Best had been texting with an acquaintance. David and Linda Kubert both lost their left legs in the accident.