There are always signs on the highways altering drivers to road conditions, traffic, and other things to be aware of. In the last few years, you’ve probably started to notice a new type of sign on the highway. Along with the “click it or ticket” campaign that encourages people to remember to fasten their seat belts, a new message is being promoted as well—don’t drive while distracted.
What does “distracted driving mean? The word “distracted” can seem a bit abstract, but the intention is quite clear, keep your eyes on the road and your hands on the wheel when you are driving. Distracted driving refers to any type of behavior that takes the driver’s attention away from the road. With the increasing reliance on smartphones and other in-car technology like GPS systems and touchscreens, there are many different ways to divert attention from watching the road. In the state of Georgia, there are several laws that prohibit distracted driving, and it is illegal to text while you are driving. If you need to make a call or check a text message, find a safe place and pull off to the side of the road.
Distracted Driving Is One of the Biggest Dangers on the Road
With approximately 391,000 people injured or killed by distracted drivers in 2015, this epidemic is a major issue on the roadways today, and one of the leading causes of car accidents. It might seem like a quick glance at the phone is not a big deal, but even when you are driving a car at relatively slow speeds, looking away for just one or two seconds can result in a devastating collision.
In order to practice safe driving and avoid distractions, here are some common behaviors to avoid:
- Texting while driving – this is one of the most dangerous and common distractions.
- Eating or drinking in the car – this requires you to remove at least one hand from the wheel.
- Checking a GPS system, or using a touch screen – instead, opt for a voice-activated navigation system.
- Changing a radio station, or searching for music – this causes a shift of attention from the road to the screen in front of you.
- Taking a photo or a selfie – this should go without saying, looking at a screen and taking your eyes off the road, even for a moment, is very dangerous.
If You Were Injured in a Car Accident That Involved a Distracted Driver, Call Brauns Law Accident Injury Lawyers, PC Today
Although driving while distracted is an unsafe practice, and even illegal in some areas, accidents due to driver negligence and lack of attention are quite common. If you or someone know has been injured in an auto accident due to a distracted driver in the Duluth, Georgia, area, you understand how devastating this can be. Your first step should always be to seek medical attention and then contact an attorney to help you recover just compensation for damages incurred. The experienced team at Brauns Law Accident Injury Lawyers, PC is here to help. Call us today at (404) 205-8614, or contact us online for a free initial consultation.
