Distracted Driving Defined

 Posted on December 00,0000 in Distracted Driving Accidents

Today, more than ever before, we hear of the devastating motor vehicle accident statistics caused by distracted drivers. The number of injuries and fatalities caused by distracted drivers is not only alarming; it is on the rise, increasing year after year. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention categorizes it as a health concern and actually estimates that there are eight people killed every day in the United States due to distracted drivers behind the wheel. Even more astounding, the Illinois State Police report that cell phone use while driving increases the chances of a crash by four hundred percent.

Phones Are Not the Only Culprit

With statistics like this, it is easy to sum up distracted driving as simply talking or texting on the phone, but being distracted behind the wheel can mean many things. The phones we use today are more advanced than ever before, bringing a degree of technology to our fingertips that was not available to us even a few short years ago. This advanced, easily accessible technology has countless advantages, but it has also made driving more dangerous than ever before. From apps and games to selfies and instant messaging, our phones are deadly weapons when used behind the wheel.

Although phones are largely to blame for vehicle accidents, engaging in any activity that causes you to lose focus or steal your attention from the road is considered distracted driving. Putting on your make-up, playing with the radio, assembling or programming your GPS, or even eating or drinking are all actions that potentially pull your focus from the wheel. Whether you are taking pictures with your friends at a stoplight or searching for your favorite radio station, it only takes a few seconds to lose focus and cause a life-altering accident out there on the road.

Is It Really Distracted Driving?

If you are wondering whether or not what you are doing behind the wheel is considered distracted driving, simply ask yourself if your attention is one hundred percent on the road before you. If your focus is elsewhere — even for five seconds — then it is likely you are taking a risk behind the wheel.

If you find yourself in a vehicle accident that was caused by someone’s inattention to the road, a knowledgeable Lake County vehicle accident attorney can help ensure your rights are protected and that any injuries you experience are properly cared for. Call Salvi & Maher, LLP at 847-662-3303 to schedule a free consultation today.

Sources:

http://www.isp.state.il.us/traffic/distractdrive.cfm

http://www.dmv.org/distracted-driving.php