Our driving habits have changed as we continue to become more reliant on technology. The rise of smartphones and other devices has led to a significant increase in distracted driving. In fact, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), distracted driving accounted for 2,841 deaths in 2018 alone. Nine people are killed and more than 1,000 injured daily in accidents reported as distraction-related accidents in America. The Atlanta area auto accident attorneys of Akin & Tate have handled numerous cases involving distracted drivers, helping injured victims of auto accidents get the justice they deserve.
What is Distracted Driving?
Distracted driving refers to any activity that takes your attention away from the task of driving. Three types of driver distractions are visual, manual, and cognitive. These distractions can include texting, talking on the phone, eating, drinking, and even talking to passengers in your car. Distracted driving is hazardous because it not only takes your attention away from the road but also takes your hands off the wheel and your eyes off the road, impairing your reaction time.
Reaction Time is Critical.
Reaction time is a critical aspect of safe driving. Making split-second decisions can mean the difference between avoiding an accident or being a part of one. Reacting swiftly and appropriately to dangerous actions or events on the road is essential to driving safety.
Why is Distracted Driving Dangerous?
When you are distracted while driving, your reaction time is slower. You may not see a pedestrian stepping into the crosswalk or a car stopping suddenly in front of you. A lack of focus can lead to accidents that result in severe injury or death. In addition, distracted driving is often accompanied by speeding or other reckless driving behaviors, which further increase the risk of accidents.
How to Prevent Distracted Driving – Stay Focused!
The good news is there are steps you can take to prevent distracted driving. First, make a conscious effort to stay focused. Put away any devices or other distractions that may take your attention away before you start driving. If you need to make a call or send a text, pull over to a safe location first. You should also avoid eating and drinking while driving and keep your eyes on the road at all times.
Additionally, take advantage of new technology that helps you stay focused. Many new cars come equipped with features like voice-activated controls and Blue Tooth connectivity, allowing you to make phone calls or send texts without taking your hands off the steering wheel. Even better, commit to waiting to make that phone call or sending a text until you can pull over and stop before making a call or sending a text.
No fee unless you win!
If you’ve been injured in a car accident due to the negligence of a distracted driver, call the experienced car accident lawyers at Akin and Tate. We have helped accident victims throughout Georgia get the justice they deserve. We work on a contingency fee basis – you owe nothing unless we obtain a favorable settlement or judgment on your behalf.
Questions? We have answers.
How much is your auto accident case worth? Call Akin & Tate for a free, no-obligation review of your case. Call us today to schedule a free consultation: 770-382-0780.
About Akin & Tate
Founded in 1836, Akin and Tate is Georgia’s oldest continuing-operating law firm. We have helped numerous accident victims and their families throughout Georgia secure maximum compensation for their personal injury cases.