Studies Show Distracted Drivers Are Putting Motorists at Risk

 Posted on May 23, 2018 in Car Accidents

Most of us can remember when we were first learning how to drive. Whether in a formal driver’s education class or just in a friend’s or family member’s car, when we were taught how to drive, we learned certain rules. One of these rules was to keep both hands on the steering wheel at “10 and 2.” However, as we became more comfortable driving, many of us started experimenting with driving one-handed while doing things like eating, texting, or attending to children’s needs. Today, we have named this type of behavior “distracted driving.” Sadly, distracted driving is one of the main causes of car accidents. Motor vehicle crashes in the United States involving distracted driving accounted for 3450 deaths in 2016.

An Escalating Problem

While distracted driving has been present since the invention of the car, in today’s technology-dependent society, there are more ways than ever to be distracted behind the wheel. One of the most notorious problems is using a phone while driving. When drivers take their eyes off the road, they are essentially driving blind. They will be unable to react appropriately if an expected hazard were to appear. At 55mph, a car travels the length of a football field in only five seconds. At high speeds such as these, a distracted driver becomes a threat to themselves and everyone around them. One study has shown that distracted driving may be even more dangerous than drunk driving.

Cell Phones Are Not the Only Issue

While the increased use of smartphones has certainly contributed to the problem, cell phones are not the only cause of distracted driving. Studies show that passengers in the car, especially small children, can be just as distracting. According to Australian researchers, when driving with children, the average parent looks away from the road for three minutes and 22 seconds per 16-minute trip.

An Illinois Personal Injury Attorney You Can Trust

Sadly, distracted drivers cause thousands to be killed and injured in accidents every year. If you have been hurt in a car accident caused by a distracted driver, it is not your fault. You should know that by bringing a personal injury lawsuit against the person who caused the accident, you could receive compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and more. At Schwartz Injury Law, we work with accident reconstructionists, engineers, doctors, and financial experts get our injured clients the compensation they deserve.  Contact us today to schedule a confidential consultation with an Orland Park car accident lawyer by calling 708-888-2160.

Sources:

https://www.nhtsa.gov/risky-driving/distracted-driving

https://abcnews.go.com/US/worst-driving-distractions-road-kids/story?id=18684711