Data collected by the NHTSA indicates that the risk of accidents is doubled if the driver is distracted by any activities performed while driving. Distracted driving is not only an act of irresponsible and negligent behavior, but it can also put others’ safety in danger.
Common Cases of Distracted Driving
According to the lawyers at Douglas and London, any activity performed by the driver while driving that takes away their attention from the road ahead is a distraction. Distracted driving accidents also occur if the driver is taking their hands off the wheel or their mind is off driving and distracted by something else.
Some of the most common examples of distracted driving include:
- Eating while driving
- Use of electronic devices for texting or talking
- Using the GPS navigation system
- Using the car’s stereo or temperature control system
Most states have their own distracted driving laws that prohibit drivers from using portable electronic devices like cellphones, tablets, laptops, and more.
Distracted Driving Statistics
Each year, hundreds of thousands of victims lose their lives in car accident caused by negligent drivers who were texting or using their phones while driving. Taking your eyes off the road for even a few seconds can prove fatal. Studies show that one of the main causes of fatal accident cases was driving distracted or daydreaming. The statistics surrounding distracted driving is as follows:
- Distracted drivers are 36% more likely to be in a near collision.
- Even though reading a text only takes 5 seconds, your car would have traveled the length of a football field in that time.
- As per a report by AAA, texting while driving doubles the odds of an accident. Additionally, texting while driving is six times more dangerous than drunk driving. This means one is 6 times more likely to be in an accident if they were texting while driving than driving while being intoxicated.
- Distracted drivers are more likely to drift out of lane by about 91% than other drivers.
How Can You Prevent Distracted Driving?
Preventing distracted driving is easy. Drivers should never multitask while they are behind the wheels. Always ensure to perform any alternative activities like adjusting the mirrors, seat adjustment, eating food, or taking phone calls before starting the vehicle.
Passengers in cars with distracted drivers should speak up and request the driver to focus on the road ahead. Passengers can also support the driver with any tasks such as navigation. Parents of teen drivers are recommended to discuss the rules and responsibilities of driving with their young ones and emphasize that driving is a skill that requires complete driver’s attention. A car accident lawyer can also provide you with important information to prevent yourself from getting into one of these accidents.
How Can A Car Accident Lawyer Help You?
If you have been in a collision caused by a distracted driver, it is recommended to seek legal assistance by hiring an expert car accident attorney. An experienced lawyer will review your case, help you gather the necessary evidence, and ensure that you receive the maximum compensation for your damages and injuries.