In this article, we shall learn the different causes, consequences, and solutions for distracted driving. We have also provided a PDF download link for the same
Distracted driving is any activity that takes the eyes, hands, or minds off the task at hand. Unfortunately, these days it seems as though many drivers think they are skilled multitaskers, able to concentrate on the road while doing something else. Nothing could be further from the truth. The reality is that taking your eyes off the road for as little as a few seconds is enough to cause a catastrophic accident, affecting many innocent people who have the misfortune of being close by when the distraction occurs.
If you or a loved one sustained injury due to a distracted driver, the lawyers at Rosenberg, Minc, Falkoff & Wolff, LLP recommend you contact an accident attorney as soon as possible to help you obtain the compensation to cover your injuries and losses. Read on to learn more about the most common causes of distracted driving.
Common Causes of Distracted Driving
With the advances in technology, the causes of distracted driving seem to have grown, and so have the number of people who are injured for this reason. Some of the most common distractions are:
- Any activity that requires looking at the phone while driving
- Texting and driving
- Applying makeup or doing any type of grooming while driving
- Reading
- Smoking
- Daydreaming
- Unrestrained pets or kids
- Trying to look at the GPS
- Changing radio stations
- Reaching for food or drink
- Rubbernecking
- Searching for something on the floor
These are just some of the main reasons why distracted driving causes so many accidents. However, any action that has the driver not concentrating on the road is considered distracted driving.
What are the consequences of distracted driving?
It is necessary to acknowledge the serious consequences of distracted driving. Not only are their legal penalties associated with this act but also the possibility of causing harm to oneself, passengers, as well as other drivers and pedestrians. Statistical data indicates an increase in fatalities resulting from distracted driving incidents.
In the event of a distracted driving accident, victims have the right to seek compensation from the responsible party to cover medical expenses and other losses. It is important to recognize that some injuries sustained may have lasting effects on the victim’s life. Consequently, a distracted driver may be held liable for any pain and suffering that the victim may experience daily.
- Legal penalties: These can result in legal consequences, including fines, license suspension, or imprisonment, depending on the severity of the offense.
- Increased risk of accidents: It increases the risk of collisions and accidents, endangering the driver, passengers, and other road users.
- Injury or death: Accidents can result in serious injuries or fatalities for those involved, including the distracted driver, other drivers, passengers, and pedestrians.
- Medical expenses: Victims of distracted driving accidents may face significant medical expenses for treatment and recovery from injuries sustained in the accident.
- Long-term effects: Some injuries caused by it may have long-term or permanent effects, which can impact victims for the rest of their lives.
- Loss of income: Injuries sustained in these accidents may prevent victims from working, resulting in a loss of income.
- Emotional distress: Victims of such accidents may experience emotional distress, including anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder.
- Property damage:This can result in significant damage to vehicles and other property.
- Compensation claims: Victims of these accidents have the right to pursue compensation from the liable party for medical expenses, lost income, and other losses.
- Pain and suffering: It can cause physical and emotional pain and suffer to victims, for which the distracted driver may be sued.
- Legal battles: Pursuing compensation for distracted driving accidents may involve lengthy legal battles, adding to the stress and financial burden for all parties involved.
- Reputation damage: These can also damage the reputation of the driver and their employer, particularly if the accident occurred while driving for work purposes.
What groups are more at risk for distracted driving?
Young adults and teenagers are more likely to get distracted while driving, which can be dangerous. They may text while driving, not wear a seatbelt, ride with a driver who has been drinking or using drugs, or drive after drinking alcohol.
Parents of teens or young adults should talk to them about driving responsibilities and rules. They should stress that driving needs complete focus and that they should not use their phone until they reach their destination. Nothing is as important as their safety and that of others.
If you are in a car with a distracted driver, speak up. Ask them to stop what they’re doing and concentrate on driving. This could save your life.
How To Avoid distracted driving
When you’re driving, it’s important to stay focused and avoid distractions as much as possible. Some things can take your attention away from the road, and knowing about them can help you reduce their impact. One of the most important things to remember is never to use your cell phone while driving. You can answer a call using your car’s Bluetooth system, but don’t read or send text messages until you’re not driving anymore. Even glancing at your phone for a few seconds can be dangerous. Also, having a phone conversation can be a distraction, so it’s better to tell the person you’re driving and to call them back later.
Eating, drinking, or applying makeup are also distractions that can be dangerous while driving. Do these things before you get behind the wheel or after you reach your destination. Even if you think you’re careful, distractions can lead to accidents, so it’s always better to be safe and avoid them.
Conclusion
Distracted driving is a serious issue with severe consequences. It can be caused by many factors such as cell phone use or eating while driving. To combat distracted driving, solutions like education, laws, and technology can be implemented. By taking action to minimize distractions, we can make our roads safer.
