Each year in the United States, thousands of people die in crashes involving distracted driving. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s data even shows that 2,800 people were killed in motor vehicle crashes in 2018 due to distracted driving, while approximately 400,000 other individuals were injured in these types of accidents.
The aftermath of distracted driving crashes is often devastating. The following provides helpful reminders to avoid ending up in a distracted driving accident.
Recognize What Makes Distracted Driving Dangerous
Distracted driving is dangerous because it diverts your attention from the task at hand — driving safely. There are three types of distractions that take a driver’s attention from the road — cognitive, manual, and visual distractions. What might seem like an insignificant task, such as adjusting the radio station or reaching into the back seat to grab something, can end up causing a life-changing car accident. Distracted driving can take on many forms, but it often includes things like texting, talking on the phone, and adjusting the controls on the car or GPS.
Who is at Risk of Being injured in Distracted Driving Accidents?
Teens and other young drivers are at the greatest risk of ending up in a crash caused by distracted driving. Drivers of all ages, however, are still at risk of ending up in these types of accidents. As a result, all motorists must understand the dangers associated with distracted driving and try to remain vigilant behind the wheel at all times.
How to Reduce the Risk of Distracted Driving Accidents
Fortunately, distracted driving is easily avoided. Some of the helpful strategies that motorists can follow to avoid the risk of ending up in a distracted driving crash include:
- Avoid multitasking when driving. One common task that people overlook is eating while driving. Finishing food on the way to your next destination might seem like a great idea to save time, but in reality, this means that you are less able to quickly respond to changing traffic conditions.
- If you feel tired while driving, you should pull off the road. Unfortunately, many drivers forget to do this and as a result, end up falling asleep at the wheel.
- If you are riding in a vehicle where the driver is engaging in distracted driving behaviors, request that the driver focus on operating the vehicle and traffic conditions.
- Many people live extremely busy lives. If you do need to multitask, try to do it outside of your vehicle.
- Use your phone while driving only if you encounter an emergency situation and need to call 9-1-1. If you do need to use your phone, you should make sure to pull over safely to the side of the road before doing so.
- Whenever possible, passengers should help to reduce potential distractions for the driver.
Contact a Car Accident Attorney Today
If you have been involved in a crash with a distracted driver, you should not hesitate to speak with an experienced attorney. At House Law LLC, we are focused on fighting for the results that accident victims deserve. Contact us today for assistance.
Tags: auto accident, car accidents, personal injury
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