Auto Accident Lawyer
According to statistics from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) there are eight people killed every day in accidents caused by distracted drivers. Another 1,200 suffer serious injuries.
The National Safety Council (NSC) reports that there is a car accident every eight seconds in this country, and one out of every five accidents is caused by a distracted driver. Despite the well-known dangers, many drivers – of all ages – continue to engage in distracted driving behaviors while behind the wheel of their vehicles.
One of the most dangerous forms of distracted driving is the use of a cell phone or other hand-held device. In many states, it is illegal for all drivers to use a hand-held phone or other devices while driving. Many states have also made this a primary law, which means that law enforcement can pull you over and issue a violation if they see you using your device.
In addition to being illegal, cell phone use while driving is also very dangerous. If you text and drive, you are 23 more times likely to be in a car crash. Talking on the phone while driving quadruples your risk of being in an accident.
Even hands-free devices cause a dramatic increase in accident risk. When you are talking on a cell phone, almost 40 percent of the brain activity needed to concentrate on driving is now focused on the conversation instead of the road.
It is important to realize that it is not just cell phone use that causes distracted driving accidents. Other activities that many people engage in while driving include eating and drinking, using a GPS system, talking to passengers, fiddling with vehicle music or entertainment systems, grooming, reading, and taking selfies.
All drivers can make the pledge to drive distraction-free by practicing safe driving behaviors. Before you begin to drive, make sure to set your GPS, radio, seats, mirrors, etc. so that none of those items will need your attention when you are driving. Put your phone on silent and put it away, either in a purse or glove box. When you are behind the wheel, do not eat, apply makeup or other grooming, or reach across the seats to grab an item. Stay completely focused on the road and if you do need to use your device, pull off the road to a safe area to do so.
Contact a Car Accident Attorney for Help
If you are injured in an accident caused by a distracted driver, contact an experienced car accident attorney to discuss what your legal options may be against the driver. Laws allow victims to pursue damages against the party who is liable for the accident, seeking compensation for medical expenses, loss of income, pain, and suffering, emotional anguish, permanent disability, scarring or disfigurement.
Source: Auto Accident Lawyer Canoga Park, CA, Barry P. Goldberg