Car accidents can happen for many reasons, but one of the most common causes is a distraction of some kind. Distractions range from texting and driving to listening to music, talking to passengers or eating food inside your vehicle.
All different kinds of distracted driving have one thing in common: They take your mind off what you’re doing. Whether you’re eating, playing a game, chatting with someone or manipulating the radio controls, you’re at risk if you’re not paying close attention to the road.
How serious is distracted driving?
Distracted driving is serious. It is believed that around a quarter of all fatalities caused by traffic accidents are a result of distracted driving. Some of the most common kinds of distractions include:
- Smoking behind the wheel
- Getting distracted by a person or object outside the vehicle
- Cellphone use
- Getting lost in thought
- Texting
- Talking to others in the vehicle
These factors can all lead to serious collisions if drivers aren’t cautious.
What makes people relax enough to be distracted behind the wheel?
The simple reason that so many people relax when driving and don’t pay as much attention as they should is being complacent. Complacency usually comes from a place of comfort, meaning that a driver may feel comfortable with their skills or forget just how dangerous it can be to be behind the wheel of such a large, powerful vehicle.
It is important not to be complacent when you’re behind the wheel, even if you’re familiar with where you are or what you’re doing. Your focus should always be on the road, so you can stay in control.
What can you do if you’re hit by a distracted driver?
If you are hit by a distracted driver, then you should make sure to seek medical care as soon as you can. Report that you believe that the driver was distracted to the police, and speak with your attorney about making a claim as soon as you can. If you’re hit, you deserve to make a claim to cover your financial losses, like medical bills, lost wages and more.
