When most people hear the word “distracted driving” these days, they think of smartphones and people texting while driving. While smartphones are indeed the most serious threat to people being able to pay attention to the road, there are many ways that drivers can get distracted, such as by eating, putting on makeup, talking to passengers, adjusting the radio, daydreaming and engaging in other activities.
Let’s take a quick look at some relevant facts that everyone should know about distracted driving according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
- Sending a text message causes a driver to remove his or her eyes from the road for an average of five seconds. If you’re traveling at a speed of 55 mph, you will travel the length of a football field in the span of five seconds. Even worse, if you’re texting, it’s like doing it when your eyes are closed.
- Driving requires your full attention. Any auxiliary activity puts you at risk of not seeing where you’re going and getting into a collision.
- Approximately 3,450 people died because of distracted driving in 2016.
- Teens are the most likely motorists to engage in texting while driving.
Drivers could go to jail if they cause a serious injury or death because they were distracted by a smartphone while driving.
When someone is seriously hurt by a distracted driver, this individual will usually be able to pursue financial claims against the motorist who negligently caused the injury. Do you suspect you might have a claim against a distracted driver? Our law office can help you evaluate your car accident claim.