One of the most dangerous things a driver can do is assume that he or she can safely multitask while operating a vehicle. Despite what many think, it is always dangerous to drive while also doing something else, even if it seems like a minor thing. Distracted driving in all forms is unnecessarily risky, and it can place everyone on the road at risk for injuries. Statistics and studies on accidents reveal that distracted driving may be more dangerous than most people realize.
There are many different things that can cause distracted driving. Everything from picking up a phone to talking with a passenger can take a driver’s attention from the task at hand. Even a few seconds of the distraction can result in consequences that may change the course of a person’s life. The aftermath of distraction-related accidents can be devastating, but victims do not have to walk through it alone.
What do car accident statistics say?
Car accident statistics indicate that distracted driving may be a more widespread problem than many presume. In 2021, estimates show that 3,500 people died in distraction-related accidents across the United States. However, it is possible that the actual number is higher. Phone use is the leading source of distraction, and it is particularly dangerous because it impacts a driver’s cognition, vision and physical reactions. Other activities, such as talking on the phone or eating while driving, can also be just as dangerous as texting or scrolling social media.
Multitasking may seem safe, but it is not. Studies find that participating in any type of distracting activity can impact a driver’s focus even after the activity has stopped. This means that distraction lasts longer than presumed, and more car accident injuries and fatalities may be related to distraction than statistics indicate. It is often difficult to prove that someone was a driver or what caused the distraction.
The rights of victims
If you are the victim of an accident caused by a distracted driver, you do not have to walk through the aftermath of this complicated situation alone. An assessment of your case could help you determine if you have grounds to pursue legal action. The Missouri civil justice system provides you with an opportunity to recoup your losses and seek the support you need to move forward after a motor vehicle accident.
