One of the most common causes of car accidents in Florida is distracted driving. Due to our dependence on modern-day technology, such as cellphones, these devices allow us to remain connected at all times and make us susceptible to multi-tasking while being behind the wheel. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), distracted driving contributes to nine deaths and 1,150 injuries per day. While cellphone use is a main distraction for drivers, any activity which causes someone to take their eyes and mind away from the road increases the chances of a crash.
The following are the most common driver distractions:
- Cellphones. Whether it’s talking on a cellphone or sending/reading text messages, using a hand-held device while driving can take your attention of driving and typically results in a motor vehicle accident. Based on a report by Distraction.gov, the average time an individual has their eyes off the road while texting is around five seconds, which is enough time to travel the length of a football field when driving at 55 mph.
- Hands-free electronic device. Despite the intention to curtail distracted driving, it still has the ability to take away a driver’s attention from the road.
- Passengers in your vehicle. While having a person riding with you to carpool can save money on gas or prevent you from falling asleep on the road, passengers can increase the risk of distracted driving, especially among teenage drivers and those with less driving experience.
- GPS or navigation system. Constantly checking our GPS or navigation system can lead to an auto collision.
- Changing radio stations or climate controls. Most new vehicles are equipped with controls on the steering wheel or dashboard in order to prevent looking over at the center console. However, taking your eyes away from the road to make adjustments can lead to distracted driving collisions.
- Grooming. This occurs to those commuting long distances for work or school. If you didn’t have time to brush your teeth in the morning or running late, driving while grooming can lead to an accident.
- Eating or drinking. Whether it’s to save time or avoid stopping while driving toward a specific destination, eating and drinking require attention to reach for the particular food or drink, diverting your attention away from the road.
If you have been involved in a car accident due to a distracted driver, contact Paulsen Law Group today!