Car accident attorneys, unfortunately, get to see firsthand exactly what can happen when a driver is distracted while driving. According to the National Safety Council, there was a 16% increase in motor vehicular deaths in 2021. The first half of 2021 had about 21,450 compared to 18,480 for the entire year of 2020. Car accident lawyers are on a mission to tell people why distracted driving is so dangerous. Keep reading to learn more about these dangers.
Distracted Driving Is Like Drinking and Driving
A recent study by the University of Michigan looked at a comparison of drunk driving incidents and distracted driving incidents, and found that the severity of injuries was similar, the fatalities were similar, and the number of incidents was higher in cases of distracted driving. When an accident like this happens, you need to get in touch with car accident lawyers. These professionals often represent victims that were seriously injured because another driver was not paying attention.
All it takes for an accident to happen is taking your eyes off the road. In three seconds, according to the Department of Highway Safety, you can lose control of your vehicle and have a one-car accident, hit another car, or be hit by another vehicle.
Texting Is the Number One Culprit in Distracted Driving Incidents
Texting and driving, even for a split second, can cause a wreck. While texting and driving is not the only form of distracted driving, it’s cited as being the most alarming distraction, according to the United States Department of Transportation. Other things you shouldn’t do while you drive include eating, putting on makeup, reading, and playing music too loudly.
Car accident lawyers are often faced with cases where a driver took their eyes off the road for merely a second. Distracted driving is something that can be easily avoided, yet it’s killing and injuring thousands of people each year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Do your part when you’re driving and only focus on the road. Responding to texts, checking social media, or even glancing at your phone when you’re driving can cause serious damage. If you find yourself in a situation where you need representation for a car accident, contact Putnam Lieb Potvin Dailey today. We are your number one personal injury lawyers!