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Understanding the Impact of Distracted Driving on Road Safety
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), distracted driving claimed the lives of 3,142 people in 2019. Distracted driving accidents are entirely preventable, and sadly, until every driver stops engaging in distracted driving behaviors, these types of accidents will continue to happen. However, understanding how to spot a distracted driver and avoid distracted driving behaviors can help save lives. Here’s what you need to know.
Identifying Distracted Driving Behaviors on the Road
Driving defensively encompasses many different things, such as obeying speed limits, following traffic signals and signs. It also means being aware of your surroundings. Paying attention to what’s going on around you while driving can help you identify the following distracted driving behaviors in other motorists:
- Driving slow
- Drifting between lanes
- Braking suddenly
- Stopping too long at intersections
- Erratic driving maneuvers (speeding up and slowing down infrequently)
- Driving with a phone to their ear
- Looking down or holding a phone with one hand while steering with the other
- Talking to or looking at other passengers in the car
- Eating while driving
- Putting on makeup or combing hair while driving
How To Avoid Distracted Driving Behaviors
No one is a perfect driver, but we can all do our part to mitigate the risks of being involved in a distracted driving accident by driving defensively and refrain from engaging in the distracted driving behaviors listed above. Before heading out on the road, turn off your cell phone or make important phone calls before you get on the road. If you must make a call, pull over to a safe place on the side of the road before placing a call. Multitasking while driving can be the catalyst for a severe car crash.
Injured By A Distracted Driver? Tate Law Group, LLC Can Help
Being involved in a motor vehicle crash is a devastating and stressful experience — and when a negligent, distracted driver causes it, it can make the ordeal even more challenging to endure. Not only do injuries from a car crash have physical consequences, but they can pose mental and financial burdens as well. The last things you need to worry about are medical bills and treatment costs when you need to focus on healing from your injuries.
After being harmed in a distracted driving accident, you have the right to seek compensation and hold the careless driver accountable for their actions. Let us be your advocate and help protect your rights.
To discuss your case with an attorney at Tate Law Group, LLC, call (912) 234-3030 for a free consultation or contact us here.