Car accidents often happen because of drunk driving, aggression and negligence. However, one of the biggest causes of auto accidents that have claimed thousands of lives every year is distracted driving.
What’s causing distracted driving accidents?
Distracted driving happens when a driver looks away from the road or takes their hands off the wheel. Every second that distracted driving happens increases the odds of auto accidents.
Drivers can reduce the number of distracted driving auto accidents by understanding what causes distractions. Here’s what you should know:
What can people do to reduce distracted driving?
One of the biggest causes of distracted driving is phones. Phones are made to attract people’s attention when they get calls or texts. More and more people own phones, which may be increasing the risk of auto accidents.
People who want to reduce distracted driving accidents may consider silencing their phones before they get on the road. Alternatively, drivers can put their phones in places out of reach, such as a bag or backseat. Or, drivers can turn their phones off to eliminate any notifications.
Another kind of driving distraction is fast food. Drivers can quickly grab a meal just about anywhere they are without having to leave their car. People are often tempted to snack on their meals as they drive.
Drivers may need to consider stopping their vehicle before they consider eating. For example, going through a meal bag or putting a straw in a drink can take concentration from the road. Meals are also often messy and may spill on drivers, causing them to look away from the road.
Passengers, pets, radio and AC controls are other common kinds of driving distractions. While drivers can reduce the number of distractions, that doesn’t mean they can reduce distractions for other drivers. People who suffer injuries and losses from distracted drivers may need to learn about their legal options when seeking compensation.