From intoxicated driving to inclement weather, there are plenty of factors that can contribute to a car accident. Thanks to the proliferation of smartphones and tablets, one of the most serious threats on U.S. roads is distracted driving.
Distractions in the car can take the driver’s attention off the road. Even if this lasts for just a few seconds, distracted driving can cause devastating collisions that involve serious injuries, property damage and even fatalities.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration claims that 10 percent of all crashes in the United States are due to distracted drivers. These accidents cause thousands of deaths each year.
If you were in a collision that a distracted driver caused, then you may be able to claim damages from the liable party. A Las Vegas accident attorney from Truman Law Firm P.C. can evaluate your accident and determine if you may have valid grounds for a claim.
Call us today at 702-821-1821 to schedule an appointment. In the meantime, read on to learn about the dangers of distracted driving:
Common Distractions in the Car
According to the AAA, driver distractions take three different forms. They happen when drivers:
- Take their eyes off the road
- Remove their hands from the steering wheel
- Are not mentally alert while operating the car
There are several reasons why a driver will take his or her eyes off the road, including flashy billboards and accident scenes.
In-car distractions do not necessarily require the driver to be physically distracted. Talking with passengers, using hands-free phones and daydreaming also qualify as distractions.
When these behaviors cause drivers to take their hands off the steering wheel, the chance of a crash increases significantly. Common distractions in this category include personal grooming, reading maps, attending to pets, eating and drinking, and talking on a cellphone.
There are certain distractions that fall under all three categories, such as cellphone use, and these are the most dangerous of all.
Dangers of Distracted Driving
The Foundation for Traffic Safety has collected data on distracted driving for more than 25 years. A 2006 study based on this data indicates that a driver who takes his or her eyes off the road for more than two seconds is twice as likely to cause a crash.
Experts believe that the problem is getting worse. Although most participants in a 2013 AAA survey agreed that texting while driving is dangerous, they continued to use their cellphones while behind the wheel.
Research indicates that even voice-activated communication devices and hands-free cellphone kits are distractions. Drivers who wish to remain safe and focused while behind the wheel should avoid using this technology.
If you are one of thousands of crash victim who have been injured due to a distracted driver, then the Truman Law Firm, P.C. can help. Las Vegas personal-injury lawyer Ronald W. Truman can pursue compensation for medical bills, lost wages and other damages.
To schedule a consultation, call our office today a
