Dangers of Distracted Driving
Last month, a driver of an 18-wheel-truck died when his vehicle rolled over after swerving to avoid causing a crash. The Texas Department of Public Safety investigated the accident and believes the driver was distracted by holding a cigarette lighter. He attempted to avoid hitting a vehicle in front of him and instead collided with a barrier, which caused the truck to turn over. The loss of life due to another distracted driving accident is tragic.
Distracted and inattentive driving is incredibly dangerous for drivers of all ages, levels of experience, and types of vehicles. To avoid causing an accident, learn what distracted driving really means and how to avoid it.
What Is Distracted Driving?
Simply put, distracted driving is operating a vehicle while any other activity takes the driver’s attention away from driving responsibly and safely. Operating a vehicle takes more concentration than people like to admit, particularly after having years of experience. People need their eyes on the roads, hands on the wheel, feet on the pedals, and attention upon their task. As the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention put it: Drivers can be distracted visually, manually, and cognitively. Drivers can become distracted by looking at something on their phone, in the car, or on the side of the road. Drivers can become distracted by doing something else with their hands like trying to eat or text. Drivers’ minds can wander away from the task during a conversation – even one taking place on a hands-free device.
Distracted Driving Crash Statistics
Drivers may feel like the campaign against distracted driving is overblown and unnecessary. However, the statistics say differently. According to the CDC, every day in the U.S. more than eight people are killed in accidents caused by distracted drivers. Another 1,161 are injured. With dozens killed and thousands injured every week because of inattentive driving, it cannot be argued that distracted driving is not a major problem on U.S. roads.
Tips to Avoid a Distracted Driving Accident
- Drivers can do a great deal to avoid distracted-driving-related collisions, including taking the following steps:
- Put the cell phone somewhere out of reach;
- Do not talk on the phone or text, even with a hands free device;
- Do not try to eat or drink while driving;
- Do not smoke while driving;
- Do not attempt to locate something within the car, the glove box, or a bag while driving;
- Use the mirror to look at children, pets, or objects in the backseat; and
- Pull over if you need to make a call, find something, or scold an unruly child.
What to Do After an Accident with a Distracted Drivers
Victims of a distracted driving crash should immediately contact an experienced New Braunfels car accident attorney from the Bettersworth Law Firm. We have years of experience helping car accident victims seek recovery from an insurance company or through a personal injury suit. Our priority is helping our clients anyway we can, with a focus on winning them fair compensation for your injuries. Reach out to us today to schedule an appointment.
Sources:
http://kxan.com/2016/12/27/one-dead-in-san-marcos-rollover-crash-closing-southbound-i-35/
https://www.cdc.gov/motorvehiclesafety/distracted_driving/
