In recent years, the rate of automobile-related accidents in the United States has been steadily increasing, posing a serious threat to the safety of citizens and the overall health of the nation. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, over 36,000 people died in automobile-related accidents in 2019, the highest number since 2007. You can easily fall victim to such reckless drivers and incur significant losses. Distracted driving accident lawyers can help the victims recover from their losses by negotiating with the defendant’s insurance company.
Increased Use of Smartphones
The increased use of smartphones has led to a rise in distracted driving accidents. Smartphones provide a number of features that allow drivers to take their eyes off the road and focus their attention elsewhere, including texting, talking, playing games, using social media, and watching videos. This can be incredibly dangerous, as drivers can become distracted and unable to react quickly enough to potential hazards. Additionally, drivers may take their hands off the wheel in order to use their phones, which can lead to a loss of control of the vehicle. As a result, distracted driving accidents have been increasing, with smartphone use playing a major role.
Social Media and Messaging
Social media and messaging platforms have become increasingly popular in recent years, with more people spending time on their phones to stay connected with friends, family, and colleagues. This means that more people are engaging in activities such as texting and posting on social media while driving, which can lead to a higher risk of accidents. The National Safety Council (NSC) estimates that 28% of all car crashes in the United States are caused by distracted driving and that the use of social media and messaging is a major factor in that percentage. A recent study by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety found that drivers who use their phones to text, post on social media, or check notifications are up to eight times more likely to be involved in an accident than those who are not.
GPS Navigation
GPS navigation can potentially increase the risk of distracted driving accidents because it can be a distraction in itself. While navigation systems are meant to help drivers reach their destination more quickly, they can also be a source of distraction. This can be especially true if drivers are unfamiliar with the navigation system or become lost. Additionally, drivers may be tempted to take their eyes off the road to try to read the navigation system or to enter information into the system while driving. All of these activities can take a driver’s focus away from the road, which can lead to an increased risk of accidents.
In-Car Technology
The increased use of in-car technology has been linked to a rise in distracted driving accidents. When drivers use in-car technology, such as navigation systems and music streaming apps, they are more likely to become distracted from the task of driving. Even hands-free technology can be distracting, as the conversation can miss the concentration of the driver on the road. In-car technology can also make driving more complicated, as drivers must navigate menus and settings that can be difficult to understand.
Multi-Tasking
With the increase in multitasking, such as texting while driving, eating, and doing makeup, the number of distracted driving accidents has increased significantly. Multi-tasking takes the driver's attention away from the road and can lead to a dangerous and even deadly situation. When a driver is a multi-tasking, they are less likely to be aware of their surroundings, including other vehicles, pedestrians, and traffic signs.
Fatigue
Fatigue can significantly increase the risk of distracted driving accidents. When a person is fatigued, their attention span and reaction time are both reduced, making it more difficult for them to focus on the task of driving and respond quickly to unexpected events. This decrease in focus and reflexes can lead to dangerous mistakes, such as when a driver fails to notice a hazard in the roadway.
Lack of Education
Many drivers may not fully understand the dangers of distracted driving or how to avoid distractions while behind the wheel. A lack of education and awareness can contribute to the rise in distracted driving accidents.
Conclusion
All these reasons for distracted driving can lead to fatal accidents. So, it is better to be vigilant and pay attention on the road, but even if you are a part of such an accident because of a mistake of another driver, you should find yourself a competent lawyer to get you your compensation.
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