Distracted driving is one of the main killers on our roads today. According to Distraction.gov, 3,154 people were killed on American roadways as a result of distracted driving in 2013. It has been estimated that 25 to 30 percent of all traffic accidents are due to some form of distraction.
The CDC describes three different types of distracted driving:
- Visual – Completely taking your eyes off of the road
- Manual – Removing your hands from the steering wheel to take care of something else (adjusting the radio, eating/drinking, etc.)
- Cognitive – When your mind is anywhere else except behind the wheel
Any of these forms of distracted driving can result in serious and deadly car accidents. Below are specific types of common distractions that have caused death as well as serious injury.
- Texting while driving. This is something that is on the rise in our society. That text can wait until you stop! Your friends or family would much rather hear from you a few minutes later than never hearing from you again.
- Grooming. Prepare to get up a little earlier at home to be able to brush your hair and tend to your makeup as opposed to doing it while driving.
- Eating. Spilling hot coffee and eating are two serious distractions. Make certain you have your coffee in a proper mug that will not spill easily while driving.
- Tending to children. Tell your children that you must be distraction free while driving for their safety. They can wait and should wait to be tended to. If it’s an emergency, pull off the road if necessary. You are creating more danger to yourself and your family by trying to drive and tend to your child.
- Reading. Yes, reading behind the wheel seems crazy, but it happens. Catching up on the latest news (via print or your smartphone) is not appropriate while driving.
If you or a loved one has been in an automobile accident due to a reckless distracted driver, you should contact a car accident attorney to help you get the compensation you deserve.