In today’s fast-paced world, distractions are everywhere; unfortunately, they extend onto our roads and lead to devastating consequences. COVID-19 changed our lives with new work patterns, more reliance on technology, and different driving habits. As a personal injury law firm dedicated to advocating for victims, it’s our responsibility to shed light on the dangers of distracted driving and address the exacerbation of this issue amid the pandemic’s challenges.
For more than a decade, the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety has been committed to deepening our understanding of America’s traffic safety culture through the annual Traffic Safety Index survey.
Of the 2,500 licensed drivers who responded to the survey:
- 22% admitted to switching lanes at a high rate of speed.
- 25% admitted to
- running red lights.
- 40% admitted to cell phone use while driving
- 50% admitted to exceeding posted speed limits by 15mph or more.
Distracted driving causes many accidents, leading to injuries, deaths, and life-changing outcomes on our roads.
As advocates for safer roads, it’s imperative to raise awareness about the importance of eliminating distractions while driving. Here are some preventive measures individuals can take:
1. Practice Mindful Driving: Commit to focusing solely on the task of driving whenever you’re behind the wheel. Avoid multitasking and keep your attention on the road, traffic signals, and potential hazards.
2. Utilize hands-free technology: When necessary, utilize hands-free options for phone calls or navigation to minimize distractions. However, remember that even hands-free communication can still divert your eyes off the road.
3. Plan ahead: Take care of any personal grooming, eating, or other activities before getting on the road. Plan your route in advance, and set up your navigation system or music playlist to minimize the need for adjustments while driving.
4. Be a responsible passenger: Don’t do things that might distract the driver and help prevent accidents. Offer to handle tasks like adjusting climate controls or changing music to support the driver’s focus.
Remember, no text, call, or notification is worth risking lives on the road. Stay focused and stay safe.
What Should You Do If You Are In A Car Accident As A Result Of Distracted Driving?
1. Call the police and file a report.
2. Swap information (including any insurance information they may have).
3. Gather details.
4. Take pictures/video
5. Gather the contact information of any witnesses.
6. Seek medical care immediately for any injuries, no matter how minor you think they might be.
GET MORE HELPFUL INFORMATION ON WHAT TO DO AFTER AN ACCIDENT HERE AT OUR “CAR WRECK CHECKLIST” >
Joe Zarzaur is a Board Certified Civil Trial Lawyer whose firm has been promoting community safety since 2007. AT ZARZAUR LAW, WE PRACTICE IN THE FOLLOWING AREAS: SERIOUS PERSONAL INJURY, PRODUCT DEFECT, AUTO ACCIDENTS, CYCLING ACCIDENTS, MOTOR VEHICLE ACCIDENTS, PRODUCT LIABILITY, WRONGFUL DEATH, COMMUNITY SAFETY, BOAT, AND JET SKI ACCIDENTS, AND SLIP AND FALL. Licensed in Alabama and Florida.
If you’ve been injured in a car accident, it’s important that you don’t make any rash decisions. Put yourself in the best possible position to receive the justice you deserve. It is also important to consult with a Board-Certified Trial Lawyer who has the knowledge and experience to help you. We know accidents can be stressful, and we want to make the process as easy as possible for you.
Call Zarzaur Law, P.A. today at (855) Hire-Joe for a free legal consultation or visit www.zarzaurlaw.com.
If you or a loved one is injured in a car wreck, feel free to reach out to our firm for a free consultation at zarzaurlaw.com or 855HireJoe.
Sources:
https://newsroom.aaa.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/AAAFTS-TSCI-Technical-Report.pdf