The problem of distracted driving is real
Distracted driving is unquestionably dangerous and a serious concern on our roadways. During 2015, nearly 4,000 victims lost their lives in distracted driving-related car accidents. A total of 3,477 victims were killed in distracted driving accidents and 391,000 were injured in distracted driving accidents during 2015 which impacts victims, families and communities. Distracted driving is a real danger for victims and their families.
Distracted driving includes any activity that removes the driver’s focus from the roadway. Distracted driving can refer to many different behaviors drivers may, unfortunately, engage in every day. Distracted driving increases the chances of a car accident and drivers must provide their full attention to the task of driving to perform it safely. Texting while driving is considered the most dangerous form of distracted driving and removes the driver’s attention, eyes and hands from the task of driving.
Texting while driving is considered the most dangerous form of distracted driving because it combines all three forms of distracted driving including cognitive, visual and manual. Though texting and driving is serious, distracted driving refers to a much broader range of activities drivers may engage in while driving. Distracted driving behaviors include talking on a cell phone, talking with passengers in the vehicle, operating the stereo, operating a navigation or entertainment system or grooming or eating while driving.
Victims of distracted drivers are protected through the personal injury legal process and their families are protected through the wrongful death legal process. Making a personal injury or wrongful death claim for damages can help victims and family members recover compensation for the physical, financial and emotional damages suffered in a distracted driving-related car accident.
Source: United States Department of Transportation National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, “Distracted Driving,” Accessed Oct. 10, 2017