Examples of Distracted Driving

We all have the best of intentions when we get behind the wheel of a car and plan to drive as diligently as possible. However, many of us may not realize how each distraction that causes a driver to look away from the road could actually cost you or someone else their life – even if for just moments at a time.

The Toll Distracted Driving Takes

Sadly, even a momentary distraction can be enough to cause a collision that results in a serious injury or fatality. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have published data indicating that when driving at 55 mph, just reading or sending a text for five seconds takes a driver’s eyes off the road for long enough to cover the distance of a football field. And while reliable estimates of the number of crashes caused by distracted drivers are difficult to ascertain since this is dependent on distracted drivers admitting their risky behavior, national police-reported data on fatal crashes in 2018 indicates that about 8 percent of all crash deaths were attributable to motor vehicle crashes in which distraction was deemed a contributing factor.

The Broad Range of Distracted Driving

Drivers are confronted with numerous possible distractions any time they climb behind the wheel. And while texting and cell phone usage are well-known, distracted driving actually encompasses any activity that could divert attention from the primary task of driving. Some of the different forms of distracted driving include:

• Cell phone usage – Keep in mind that texting and driving is now a primary driving offense in the state of Florida which means you can be pulled over for this behavior alone. That means that there are two reasons to stay off your phone while driving – it’s dangerous and it’s illegal.
• Eating and drinking – While grabbing a bite to eat or something to drink may seem convenient, it’s also dangerous. You should avoid eating or drinking while driving a vehicle and if you have to multitask in this way, stick to finger foods.
• Personal grooming – We get it. You may be on the way to an interview or rushing to work after your kids made you late departing from home. Regardless, trying to style your hair or apply makeup while driving is a bad idea as is any other attempt at grooming while driving.

Focus on Obtaining the Right Legal Help

As much as we may wish the world were a safer place, we all need to be alert to the many possible distracted driving situations in which injury or death can happen. It is also important that you understand your rights when you have been involved in a car accident with a distracted driver that resulted in you being injured. As the West Palm Beach personal injury attorneys at The Pendas Law Firm, we understand that distracted driving is extremely dangerous and can lead to especially tragic results. We have the knowledge and experience you can depend on to help you successfully pursue your claim. Contact us for help today.

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