Millions of people die from
car accidents every year in the United States. Over the past decade, the majority of
these deaths are caused by distracted driving, specifically due to cellphone
usage. Whether it’s talking on the phone, texting, or checking your
e-mails, our modern society heavily relies on these devices to conduct
our daily activities. However, our dependence on cellphone have proven
costly when we get behind the wheel.
According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, over 3,000 people were
killed and almost half a million were injured in motor vehicle collisions
involving distracted drivers. Drivers engaged in text messaging on their
cellphones are 23 times more likely to be involved in a crash. If you’re
driving 55 miles per hour, the average text takes your eyes off the road
long enough to cover a football field.
Other common forms of distracted driving include the following:
- Eating and drinking
- Grooming
- Using a navigation system
- Talking to passengers
- Adjusting the radio
- Watching a video
- Reading
Despite the new laws designed to curtail distracted driving, accidents,
injuries and fatalities still occur. As licensed drivers, we have a responsibility
to always practice safe driving and maintain awareness of other drivers
around us.
Distracted driving, even if it’s only for a few seconds, is enough
for us to be vulnerable to potential hazards on the road while not having
the appropriate amount of time to react in a safe manner. April is the
month to educate everyone, especially young drivers, about the dangers
of distracted driving by showing them the facts and convincing them that
it’s not worth it.
If you have been involved in a car accident and suffered serious injuries
due to distracted driving,
contact our Tampa Bay car accident attorney and
schedule your complimentary consultation today.