Distracted drivers killed an average of nine people per day in 2013. That amounts to over 3,000 deaths that could have been easily avoided by simply maintaining focus behind the wheel.
Between texting, talking on the phone, and the various other activities that are now available to drivers through their mobile devices and in-car technology, in today’s world it takes more discipline than ever to maintain focus on the road. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has designated April as Distracted Driving Awareness Month in order to remind drivers and passengers about the dangers of distracted driving.
The Dangers of Distracted Driving
Did you know that if you spend five seconds reading a text message on the highway, you would have driven more than the length of a football field without looking at the road? It is statistics like these that bring stories like the following into perspective.
● On April 16, 2014, a 20-year-old California woman drifted off of the road and struck four teenage pedestrians, killing one. and severely injuring the other three. She was driving over 60 mph in a 45 mph zone, and either texting or reaching for her cell phone at the time of the accident.
● That same month, a 32-year-old woman died in a car accident in North Carolina. According to police, she was taking selfies and posting on Facebook immediately prior to the fatal crash.
● This month, a Wisconsin woman is standing trial for a fatal crash that occurred in 2013. She was chatting on Facebook when the collision took the lives of her 11-year-old daughter and two 5-year-old nieces.
Each one of these cases is a tragic example of the risks of distracted driving, and why NHTSA recommends putting your phone out of reach until you arrive at your destination.
Get Involved in Distracted Driving Awareness Month
At Petro Cohen, P.C., we encourage everyone to get involved in the fight against distracted driving. As personal injury attorneys, we know all too well the damage that can result from even a momentary lapse in concentration while in the driver’s seat. NHTSA provides these and other recommendations for getting involved in Distracted Driving Awareness Month.
● Take a pledge to avoid driving distractions
● Spread the word on social media
● Speak up if you are riding with a distracted driver
● Host a community event or pledge drive to promote safe driving
● Familiarize yourself with the distracted driving laws in your state
For more tips, resources and statistics, visit NHTSA’s Web site, https://www.nhtsa.gov/risky-driving/distracted-driving .
Experienced New Jersey Auto Accident Injury Lawyers
With over 100 years of combined experience representing victims of car crashes and other accidents, the attorneys at Petro Cohen, P.C. have seen just about everything when it comes to causes of vehicle collisions. To learn more about our experience and how we can help you if you’ve been involved in an accident, please contact us today.
Loading...