Joe knows – auto accidents happen for a number of reasons, but distracted driving is the most common cause of motor vehicle crashes in the United States. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), more than 1,000 people are injured and approximately nine people are killed in crashes involving a distracted driver every day.
With more and more motorists using their smartphones and other devices while driving, the number of distracted driving accidents just keeps going up, especially among teen drivers. The Team at Stanley Law have recovered compensation for injured victims in all types of distracted driving cases. Understanding the main causes of distracted driving accidents can help you stay more aware and help keep you safe on the road.
Distractions That Cause Car Accidents
According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), there are three types of distractions motorists experience while driving: visual (when you take your eyes off the road), manual (when you take your hands off the wheel), and cognitive (when you take your mind off driving).
1. Using A Smartphone While Driving
Using a cell phone to talk or text while driving is the most common reason for distracted driving accidents that can cause serious injury or death. In 2017 alone, 3,166 people were killed in motor vehicle crashes involving distracted drivers. Don’t text and drive, and if you do need to talk on the phone, use a hands-free Bluetooth device.
2. GPS
Although GPS systems have made it easier to get from point A to point B, using a GPS navigation system while driving can be as dangerous as texting. Enter your destination before you embark on a trip, and turn up the volume, so there’s no need to glance at the screen. If you need to reenter an address or find another route, pull over to do so.
3. Adjusting Controls
It may not seem like a big deal, but looking away from the road for just a few seconds to adjust the air conditioning or change the music can put you and others on the road in danger. Set the temperature and volume at a comfortable level before you hit the road
4. Grooming Or Applying Makeup
Looking in the mirror to apply makeup or brush your hair while driving is a dangerous idea. Finish your daily grooming routine before you leave the house or after you get to the office.
5. Other Passengers
Having someone riding with you is a distraction in itself. It’s important to remember that keeping your attention on the road is your top priority while driving. It’s natural to want to turn and look at someone when you’re speaking to them, but keeping your eyes on the road at all times is vital. Always keep children and pets secure. Avoid looking behind you to deal with what may be going on in the back seat. If things get heated and you need to deal with it, pull over.
6. Zoning Out
It’s easy to let your mind wander while driving, especially if you take a familiar route every day. Try to avoid going on “autopilot” and stay conscious of the road in front of you, including traffic lights, stop signs, other motorists, pedestrians, and bicyclists.
7. Outside Visual Distractions
Taking your eyes off the road to gawk at a car accident, look for an address, or admire a beautiful rainbow may seem innocuous, but it can have deadly consequences. Regardless of what’s going on around you, keep your eyes on the road and your mind on driving. And remember, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, so stay alert and focused on the road to stay safe.
What To Do If You’re Involved In A Distracted Driving Accident
After an accident, it’s essential to call the police and seek medical attention as soon as possible. Get the contact and insurance information of all involved drivers, and collect contact information for any witnesses as well. Use the voice recorder or notepad on your phone to document everything you remember about how the accident happened.
Even if you think you haven’t been seriously injured, it’s always a good idea to contact a car accident attorney before giving a statement to or accepting a settlement from any insurance company. A personal injury attorney can assess your case and determine the best course of action to protect your rights and recover maximum compensation for your damages.
Contact An Auto Accident Attorney
If you’ve been injured or have lost a loved one in a distracted driving accident caused by someone else’s negligence, we can help. Don’t go it alone – to schedule a free initial consultation at Stanley Law Offices, contact us online or call 800-608-3333 or 800-372-3760. Our offices are conveniently located in Syracuse, Binghamton, Watertown, and Rochester, New York, and Montrose, Pennsylvania. Se habla español.
