Distracted driving is a significant hazard on American and international streets. Despite public awareness campaigns and severe restrictions, the incidence of incidents caused by distracted driving is rising. This phenomenon endangers public safety and causes thousands of yearly injuries and deaths (1).
What Does It Mean to Drive While Distracted?
Distracted driving is any activity that diverts a driver's attention from the road. Distractions might be visual (take your eyes off the road), manual (take your hands off the steering wheel), or cognitive (take your thoughts off driving). Here are some popular diversions:
- Using a phone
- Eating or drinking
- Talking to passengers
- Adjusting the car’s controls
- Daydreaming
- Looking at roadside attractions
Types of Distractions
- Manual Distractions: Activities that require you to withdraw your hands from the driving wheel, such as eating, drinking, or changing your seatbelt.
- Auditory Distractions: Listening to loud music or conversing on the phone are distractions.
- Visual Distractions: Anything that takes your attention away from the road, such as checking your phone or glancing at a billboard.
- Cognitive Distractions: Mental distractions that take your focus away from driving, including daydreaming or engaging in deep conversation.
Statistics and Impact
They were distracted driving accounts for a sizable part of traffic accidents. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), distracted driving contributed to 8% of fatal crashes and 14% of crashes that resulted in injuries in 2020 (2). Young drivers, mainly those aged 15 to 20, are especially vulnerable to distractions.
Key Statistics:
- In 2015, distracted driving caused 3,477 deaths and 391,000 injuries.
- Texting and driving are six times as risky as driving under the influence of alcohol.
- About 68% of teen drivers admit to texting while driving.
Dangers of Distracted Driving
Distracted driving can cause a variety of problems, including head-on collisions, rear-end crashes, and pedestrian accidents. Minor scrapes and bruises can lead to catastrophic injuries like shattered bones, concussions, and spinal cord damage. Accidents involving distracted driving can be fatal in extreme cases (3).
What To Do If You Are Involved in a Distracted Driving Accident
- Call for Emergency Services: Ensure that everyone involved receives medical attention immediately.
- Document the Scene: Take images and videos of the accident scene, including vehicle damage and traffic conditions.
- Collect Witness Information: Obtain the contact details of any witnesses supporting your case.
- Contact a Distracted Driving Accident Lawyer: A lawyer can help you understand your legal options and walk you through the compensation procedure.
How a Distracted Driving Accident Attorney Can Assist
- Handle Paperwork: Manage all legal documentation and formalities.
- Gather Evidence: Collect and compile evidence to build a strong case.
- Negotiate Settlements: Work with insurance companies to ensure you receive fair compensation.
Strategies to Reduce Distracted Driving
- Put Your Phone Away: Store your phone out of reach while driving to avoid temptation.
- Limit Passengers: Reduce the number of passengers to minimize distractions.
- Plan Ahead: Set your GPS and adjust controls before starting your trip.
- Stay Focused: Keep your mind on driving and avoid engaging in distracting activities.
Efforts to Combat Distracted Driving
Government Initiatives
The NHTSA has launched campaigns to raise awareness and developed educational materials. Many states have enacted laws prohibiting the use of handheld devices while driving.
Law Enforcement
Police use unmarked vehicles to catch distracted drivers and conduct school educational programs.
Advocacy Groups
Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) and End Distracted Driving (EDD) seek to increase awareness and lobby for tighter regulations.
Related Studies:
- This report provides statistics on distracted driving incidents involving teens, indicating that 239 distracted teen drivers were involved in fatal crashes in 2020.
- This study compares the cognitive and motor skills of drivers texting while driving to those driving under the influence of alcohol, revealing that texting significantly impairs driving ability.
- This comprehensive review categorizes driving distractions into manual, auditory, visual, and cognitive, emphasizing their impact on driving safety.
Conclusion
Distracted driving is a rapidly rising pandemic that endangers public safety. Drivers can contribute to road safety by identifying hazards and taking steps to reduce distractions. If you are involved in an accident caused by a distracted driver, you should get legal assistance to guarantee you receive the compensation you are entitled to. Let us pledge to drive without distractions and promote safer driving behaviors.
FAQs
Q: What is the most common cause of distracted driving accidents?
A: Texting while driving is the most common and dangerous form of distracted driving.
Q: How can I avoid distractions while driving?
A: Store your phone away, limit passengers, plan your route, and stay focused on the road.
Q: What should I do if I'm involved in a distracted driving accident?
A: Call emergency services, document the scene, collect witness information, and contact a lawyer.
Q: How does a distracted driving accident lawyer help?
A: They handle paperwork, gather evidence, and negotiate settlements on your behalf.
Q: Are there laws against distracted driving?
A: Yes, many states have laws prohibiting the use of handheld devices while driving and other forms of distracted driving.
