What is Distracted Driving?
Distracted driving is typically defined as any time you take your eyes off the road or your hands off the steering wheel while driving, but it also includes any time that you aren’t mentally focused on the task at hand. If you aren’t completely focused on driving while driving, you’re distracted.Many distracted drivers don’t feel distracted while driving, but they often engage in distracting driving activities. In fact, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) estimates that drivers participate in potentially distracting activities up to 30% of the time they’re driving. Examples of common driving distractions include:
- Texting or talking on the phone
- Adjusting the radio or other car settings
- Eating
- Reaching for fallen objects
- Speaking to passengers
- Smoking
Distracted Driving Consequences
While something as simple as speaking to your passengers doesn’t seem distracting, distracted driving can have serious consequences. Driving while distracted can result in:
- Unintended speed changes
- Leaving your car’s current lane of travel
- Loss of vehicle control
Most importantly, distracted driving can make you miss changes in the traffic environment around you, causing a collision. This kind of accident could cause car damage, injury or even be fatal. Every driver has a responsibility to be focused while driving to prevent damage to themselves and others.
Lawsuit Liability
In addition to being dangerous, distracted driving makes you liable in a lawsuit. This means if you cause an accident, you can be responsible for medical expenses, repair expenses and more. If you’ve been in an accident and suspect the other driver is at fault due to distracted driving, call a car accident attorney.If you’re the victim of a distracted driving accident, the personal injury lawyers at Cesar Ornelas Law are ready to fight for you. Contact us today for a free case review, and take the first step toward getting the compensation you deserve.
