According to the National Highway Safety Traffic Administration (NHSTA), “In 2018 alone, 2,841 people were killed in motor vehicle crashes involving distracted drivers.” Many distracted driving fatalities can easily be avoided. However, they remain common and can be detrimental to those involved. What are some of the leading causes of distracted driving accidents, and how can they be avoided?
The most common causes of distracted driving accidents and fatalities include:
- Changing radio stations
- Talking to people in the vehicle
- Drinking
- Eating
- Watching TV
- Inputting information into the navigation system
- Texting
Each of these activities causes drivers to take their attention off of the road. Less than 5 seconds of distraction can cause an accident, especially on high-speed roads like the highway. Sending or reading text messages is one of the most distracting activities that occur while on the road.
How can distracted driving accidents be avoided?
By only taking time to pull over and eat, have a conversation, or send a text message, a distracted driving accident can be easily avoided. In our fast-paced society, it can seem hard to slow down. We are always faced with distractions and tempted to multitask. However, by simply avoiding these activities and entirely focusing on the road, terrible accidents and fatalities can be avoided.
If you have been injured in a distracted driving accident that was not your fault, contact Smith Injury Law today!
