The single biggest cause of car accidents is distracted driving. This is especially true for drivers between 15 and 20 years old.
Anything that takes your attention away from driving can be a distraction. Sending a text message, talking on a cell phone, using a navigation system, and eating while driving are a few examples of distracted driving. Any of these distractions can endanger you, your passengers, and others on the road.
There are three main types of distraction:
- Visual: taking your eyes off the road
- Manual: taking your hands off the wheel
- Cognitive: taking your mind off driving
How Big Is This Problem?
- In the U.S. in 2018, over 2,800 people were killed and an estimated 400,000 were injured in crashes involving a distracted driver.
- About 1 in 5 of the people who died in crashes involving a distracted driver in 2018 were not in vehicles―they were walking, riding their bikes, or otherwise outside a vehicle.
As distracted driving is now such a significant cause of accidents, many states have made it illegal to use a cell phone without a hands-free device or to engage in other distracting behavior while driving.
How Can I Prevent Distracted Driving Accidents?
According to research from the NHTSA, most traffic accidents happen on weekend nights, during weekday rush-hour traffic, and during holidays when many people drive long distances to visit family and friends. Being extra alert when driving at these times can help prevent an accident – so avoid using any form of distractions such as texting, looking at yourself in the mirror, changing music, eating. etc.
Other ways to reduce your chances of having an auto accident are:
- Never drink and drive, and never use any prescription medication that may impair your ability to drive.
- Turn off your cell-phone (or use a hands-free device if you are old enough to do so legally). Do not text and drive.
- Always be sure everyone in the car is wearing a working seatbelt.
- Obey all road signs and traffic signals, and never exceed the posted speed limit.
- Adjust your driving style and speed to the road and weather conditions.
- Avoid driving during heavy rain, snow, and other adverse weather conditions.
By following laws and regulations, practicing defensive driving, and using common sense, you can greatly lower your chances of being involved in a fatal car accident.
In the unfortunate incident you are or have been in a car accident in the last 14 days – Call Accident Medical Group to provide an Attorney and Medical provider at NO cost to you
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