Debunking Some Common Myths About Distracted Driving in Florida

Distracted driving is a growing problem in the United States. This behavior is dangerous because it prevents drivers from focusing on the road. Unfortunately, many people do not understand the truth about this dangerous behavior. There are many myths about distracted driving that can hinder efforts to promote safe driving behaviors. Below, we debunk some of the most prevalent myths about distracted driving in Florida.

Myth #1: Distracted Driving Is Not That Dangerous

False: Distracted driving is one of the most dangerous behaviors on the road. According to statistics, distracted driving claims the lives of more than 3,000 people every year in the U.S. Over 300,000 people suffer injuries in distracted driving accidents every year.

Myth#2: Drivers Can Multitask

False: Multitasking is more challenging than it might seem. When drivers multitask, their attention switches from driving to the other task(s) being performed. This means that at certain points, the driver is not paying attention to driving, increasing the risk of accidents. For example, a driver may not see a pedestrian crossing the road or a stop sign.

Myth #3: Distracted Driving Only Involves Cell Phone Use

False: Distracted driving can occur from various activities, including eating/drinking, grooming, interacting with passengers, daydreaming, looking at something outside the vehicle, adjusting the radio, and adjusting the GPS. All these and many other activities can increase the risk of an accident.

Myth #4: A Few Seconds of Distraction Cannot Cause Any Harm

False: A few seconds of distraction can have devastating consequences. A moment of distraction, such as adjusting the radio or glancing at a text message, can lead to a serious accident. For example, texting or reading a text can take your eyes off the road for five seconds. According to the NHTSA, driving at 55 mph is like driving the length of a football field with your eyes shut. This distance is enough to miss critical visual cues, such as a pedestrian, a stopped vehicle, or a traffic sign or signal. Even a few seconds of distraction can impair reaction times and decision-making.

Myth #5: Distracted Driving Is Only an Issue for Young People

False: While younger people are often cited for distracted driving, this issue affects drivers of all ages. Older people also engage in distracted driving behaviors, including using their phones and adjusting in-car systems. Cell phone usage behind the wheel is particularly common among older people.

Myth #6: Using Hands-Free Devices Is Safe

False: While hands-free devices eliminate the physical task of holding a phone while talking, they don’t eradicate cognitive distractions, which are distractions that occur when you take your mind off the task of driving. Being mentally distracted while talking on the phone can lead to reduced attention on the road, increasing the risk of an accident.

Legal Help Is Available

If you suffer harm in a car accident because of a distracted driver, you may have the right to seek compensation through a personal injury claim. In the event of a distracted driving accident, contact our Orlando personal injury attorneys at The Pendas Law Firm for legal help.

The Pendas Law Firm also represents clients in the Ocala, Tampa, Jacksonville, Miami, Bradenton, Daytona Beach, West Palm Beach, Fort Myers, Fort Lauderdale, Naples, and Melbourne areas.

Source:

forbes.com/advisor/legal/auto-accident/distracted-driving-statistics/