Posted in News on October 16, 2015
Distracted driving endangers the safety of drivers, other motorists and pedestrians sharing the roadways. Distracted driving includes any activities a driver engages in while driving that diverts the driver’s attention from the roadway. During 2013, 424,000 victims were injured in distracted driving-related car accidents. Also during 2013, 3,154 victims were killed in distracted driving-related car accidents. While fatalities related to distracted driving decreased somewhat from 2012 to 2013, injuries related to distracted driving increased during the same time period.
Distracted driving can include a number of activities many drivers will recognize such as texting while driving; operating a cell phone while driving; reading maps while driving; operating a navigation system while driving; adjusting the radio while driving; eating or drinking while driving; grooming while driving; and interacting with passengers while driving.
In general, there are three types of distraction which include visual, manual and cognitive distractions. Texting while driving is considered the most serious distraction because it combines the three forms of distraction. Engaging in visual and manual tasks not related to the task at hand increases the chances of a car accident by three times. Distracted drivers may be held liable for the damages suffered by victims and required to compensate victims for those damages.
The problem of distracted driving is alarming and can cost lives. Victims can also suffer unexpected damages that result from a distracted driving-related car accident including physical, emotional and financial damages. It is important for victims of distracted driving-related car accident to keep in mind that legal options are available to aid, assist and protect victims of distracted driving accidents.
Source: Distraction.gov, “Facts and Statistics,” Accessed Oct. 14, 2015