In the year 2017, distracted driving claimed the lives of 3,166 people in America. While you might initially think of texting while driving, there are a lot of other tasks that fall into the category of distracted driving. This includes talking on the phone, putting on makeup, playing with your radio, messing with the navigation system, joking with your passengers and pretty much anything that makes you focus on something other than driving.
Why Is Distracted Driving Such a Problem?
If you were to do the math, you’d quickly realize the distance you drive while simply sending a short text is fairly long. A text that takes you five seconds to read or write will have you taking your eyes off the road for the length of an entire football field if you’re going 55 mph. Could you imagine driving the length of a football field with your eyes shut? That’s a long way! Getting distracted for just five seconds is pretty much the same thing.
When you get behind the wheel, your focus should be on driving and driving alone. It should have your full attention. If something else requires your attention, such as an important phone call or a child in the back seat, take a moment to safely pull over before taking care of other business.
What You Can Do
Everyone in your community can play a part in keeping the roads safe from distracted drivers. If you are a teen driver, speak up when your friends are driving distracted. Set the example by putting your phone away and asking your friends to be quiet while you’re driving.
If you are a parent, your example plays a big role in what your teen drivers will do. Have family discussions about the dangers of distracted driving, and don’t be afraid to include real life stories and statistics about the consequences of not paying attention behind the wheel.
As an educator, you can teach students about the dangers of distracted driving, as well as how to keep the distractions out of the car. A little instruction can often go a long way. You can also get involved in community meetings and other local events that promote road safety.
Getting Help Today
If you need more information about distracted driving, whether for yourself or a loved one, contact a car accident attorney. The professionals who deal with these types of situations on a regular basis are often better equipped to present the facts so other individuals can drive safely. Contact a car accident lawyer in Woodland Hills, CA today to get started.
Thanks to Barry P. Goldberg for their insight into car accident claims and distracted driving.