Just How Dangerous is Distracted Driving?
Distracted drivers put themselves and others at risk when they choose to engage in activities that take their attention off the road. In fact, it has become a very serious problem over the past several years in particular, especially given the fact that almost everyone today has a cell phone with them at all times.
The following are the most common forms of distractions pulling drivers’ attention away from the road ahead of them:
- Sending and receiving text messages
- Talking on the phone without a hands-free device
- Changing the music on the stereo or an MP3 player
- Consuming foods and beverages
- Putting on or adjusting makeup
- Talking to other passengers, especially those in the backseat
How dangerous is distracted driving?
In 2012, distracted driving was responsible for about 10 percent of fatal car accidents and 18 percent of crashes resulting in serious injury. Teenagers comprise 10 percent of distracted drivers involved in fatal accidents, while motorists in their 20s account for 27 percent. About one-quarter of teens respond to one text message or more each time they drive, possibly influenced by the 10 percent of parents who admit to sending multiple texts while driving.
At any moment during the day, an average of 660,000 drivers are using their phones or other electronic devices. While taking about five seconds to send a text message, a driver in a car going 55 miles per hour has traveled the length of a football field without looking at the road.
If you or someone close to you has been severely injured or killed due to the actions of a distracted driver, meet with a dedicated Atlanta auto accident attorney at McMenamy Law LLC as soon as possible.
