Every time we get behind the wheel, we have a responsibility not only to ourselves but also to those sharing the road with us.
However, in today’s fast-paced and technology-driven world, it’s becoming increasingly challenging to resist the allure of distractions while driving. In fact, in 2021 alone, about 3,522 people died due to distracted driving in the U.S.
Distracted driving has emerged as a pressing issue, posing a significant threat to road safety. From quick glances at smartphones to engaging in conversations or eating and drinking while driving, these distractions divert our attention from the road and can have devastating consequences.
If a distracted driver hits you, you deserve compensation for injuries and property damage. To start the claim process, contact a personal injury law firm offering free consultations near you. A personal injury lawyer can be a guiding light in case of an injury and help determine the most effective way to seek justice and compensation.
Now, let’s take a closer look at the most common reasons for distracted driving. Just keep reading
5 of the Most Common Reasons for Distracted Driving
#1: Other Occupants
Passengers can demand attention from the driver or create a disorderly environment in the car. Distractions from other occupants include:
- An agitated pet may distract you as you drive.
- A heated argument with your spouse or family member can stress you and reduce your focus on the road.
- Rowdy passengers consuming alcohol and loudly laughing may create a hectic environment that makes it hard to concentrate on driving.
Drivers should limit communication in the car and pull over if they feel distracted. If a driver who fails to do this hits you, you deserve compensation for your physical injuries and lost wages.
#2: Fiddling with Car Controls
Modern cars have various controls to enhance the driving experience. This could include things like the radio, climate control, and dashboard touch screens. However, fiddling with these controls while driving can increase the likelihood of crashes.
You may say, ‘Finding my favorite song or setting my desired temperatures will only take a few seconds,’ but the truth is that in the process of trying to fix these, you may miss a slowing car ahead or traffic signs, leading to a collision. It is recommended that you simply should pull over if you want to fiddle with non-functional controls or ask passengers to perform the tasks.
#3: Smartphone Use
Smartphone use is undoubtedly one of the primary causes of distracted driving. Your phone is invaluable, helping you to communicate with loved ones, pay for services, and find directions. However, using your phone while driving, whether to call, text, or look up directions, increases the risk of a car accident.
Every state has various laws that limit phone use for drivers. For example, South Carolina’s distracted driving law prohibits drivers from composing, reading, or sending text messages on electronic devices like phones and tablets. If a driver using their phone hits you, you are entitled to recover damages.
#4: Eating and Drinking
Eating and drinking while driving is prevalent, especially among people who frequent drive-thrus on the way to or from work and school. But, this common habit is actually a major risk for accidents.
First, unwrapping food, opening cans, pouring ketchup on fries, and biting food force you to take one or two hands from the wheel or use your elbows.
Additionally, opening lids that won’t budge and cleaning spills and crumbs take your eyes off the road, making you miss road signs and delaying reaction times when faced with changing road conditions. You should eat before you drive to prevent accidents.
#5: Rubbernecking
Rubbernecking is a slang word that describes a driver craning their neck to observe something out of the vehicle. This behavior is typical when an accident has occurred, and traffic snarl-ups often appear as everyone tries to get a glimpse of the situation.
While curiosity is natural, rubbernecking could lead to serious accidents that cause grave injuries to road users. In some cases, the distracted driver may have been trying to get a better view of billboards, monuments, historical sites, and fancifully-shaped buildings. If you get hit by a driver distracted by roadside attractions, you deserve a settlement for your damages.
Injured by a Distracted Driver? Contact a Personal Injury Firm
Even if you stay alert on the road and avoid distractions, a distracted driver can hit you and cause harm and pain. When this happens, you need legal aid to navigate the complexities of personal injury law. A reliable lawyer will help you obtain financial compensation and kickstart recovery.
So, if you ever find yourself as a victim of distracted driving, you should take it up immediately and get the compensation you deserve from the reckless driver.