Why Should Drivers Never Participate in Distracted Driving?

July 31, 2020

Nowadays, most people are attached to their smart devices and often feel that it is unacceptable to be away and unavailable for short periods of time. However, responding to a call or text while driving can be life-changing and devastating.

Anything that takes one’s attention away from driving, such as drinking or eating, talking to passengers, or drowsiness, can be a serious risk on the road. In the last several decades, distracted driving car accidents have increased at alarming rates. Easy accessibility to cellphones, pressure to stay connected, and the common belief that one can multi-task, all contribute to serious and fatal accidents.

Is Distracted Driving a Serious Problem in the United States?

Texting is one of the most common types of distracted driving. Studies have shown consistently that viewing or sending texts causes drivers to take their eyes off the road for five seconds. In those mere five seconds, at 55 mph, that equates to driving an entire football field.

In 2017, over 3,100 people died in distracted driving accidents, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). That comprises 8.5 percent of the total accident fatalities for that year. Every day on American roads, nine people are killed and more than 1,000 people are injured in distracted driving accidents. For any driver, this is a risk not worth taking.

How Can Drivers Break Their Bad Habits?

Fortunately, drivers can break their bad driving habits and stop distracted driving. Many teenagers and adults are rarely seen without cellphones. The first thing a driver can do is make their devices less accessible as soon as they enter their cars. Instead of keeping a smartphone in the console or nearby seat, a driver can put the phone alerts set to mute and store it in the glove compartment.

While traveling on the job, set a firm goal to not take any work-related calls, texts, or emails, unless the car is pulled over safely or once the driver reaches their destination.

For parents of teenage drivers, it is also critical to demonstrate smart and safe driving skills to those still gaining experience. Teenagers are extremely vulnerable to texting, distracted driving, and car accidents. Parents can set ground rules for new drivers and show safety driving skills by modeling good behavior.

When Should I Talk to a Lawyer After a Distracted Driving Accident?

At-fault drivers need to be held accountable for their reckless driving. No text or call is worth the risk. If a person is hit by a distracted driver, they should speak to a lawyer right away. A lawyer will examine the cause of the accident and the facts of the case to ensure that the innocent driver’s rights are protected. Car accidents are often costly, so it is important to seek proper compensation.

Philadelphia Car Accident Lawyers at Nerenberg Law Associates, P.C. Protect Injured Car Accident Victims Against Distracted Drivers

Distracted driving is extremely dangerous, so it should be avoided at all costs. Unfortunately, accidents still occur. If you were hit by a distracted driver, contact one of our respected Philadelphia car accident lawyers at Nerenberg Law Associates, P.C. today. Complete our online form or call us at 215-569-9100 for a free consultation. Located in Philadelphia, we serve clients throughout Pennsylvania and New Jersey.