FAQs About Distracted Driving
Distracted driving is one of the most dangerous driving behaviors. Unfortunately, distracted driving is still a major concern on the roads today. Many people drive while distracted. Understanding distracted driving is vital for promoting safer driving habits. In this article, we answer some of the frequently asked questions about distracted driving to help you and your loved ones keep safe.
- What is distracted driving?
Distracted driving involves engaging in any activity that takes a motorist’s focus away from safe driving. It occurs when a driver takes their eyes off the road, hands off the wheel, and/or mind off the task of driving. Examples of distracted driving behaviors include texting or talking on the phone, eating and drinking, grooming, talking to passengers, and fiddling with the stereo or navigation system.
- How big is the problem of distracted driving?
Distracted driving is a significant problem in the United States of America. It is estimated that in the U.S., nine people die every day in distracted driving accidents. According to the NHTSA, distracted driving claimed the lives of 3,308 people in 2022.
- Why is distracted driving dangerous?
Distracted driving is dangerous because it takes a driver’s attention away from the task of driving. When a driver is visually distracted, they can miss crucial visual cues, such as pedestrians, traffic signals, and other vehicles. Activities that require taking the hands off the wheel, such as eating or texting, impact a driver’s ability to control their vehicle effectively. This makes it hard for a driver to react to hazards or sudden changes. Finally, when a driver takes their mind off driving by, for example, daydreaming, it can lead to slower reaction times and poor decision-making.
- Why is texting while driving particularly dangerous?
Texting while driving is particularly dangerous because it combines all three types of distractions. Texting while driving takes the eyes off the road, at least one hand off the wheel, and the mind off driving.
- What is the Wireless Communications While Driving Law in Florida?
The Wireless Communications While Driving Law is also called Florida Statute 316.305. This law allows the police to stop and issue citations to drivers texting while driving. Florida Statute 316.305 prohibits holding or using wireless communication devices in school and work zones. However, the law allows for certain exceptions, such as reporting an emergency or criminal or suspicious activity to the police, using a device for navigation purposes, and receiving safety-related information.
- What are my rights if I am involved in a distracted driving accident?
If you are involved in an accident where the other driver was distracted driving, you are entitled to compensation for your injuries and damages. It is vital to contact a skilled car accident attorney as soon as possible after your accident so they can advise you on the steps to take after your accident.
Contact Us for Legal Help
Contact our West Palm Beach personal injury attorneys at The Pendas Law Firm for legal help if you’ve been involved in an accident where the other driver was distracted driving.
The Pendas Law Firm also represents clients in the Orlando, Ocala, Fort Lauderdale, Fort Myers, Daytona Beach, Miami, Tampa, Jacksonville, Bradenton, Naples, and Melbourne areas.
Source:
nhtsa.gov/risky-driving/distracted-driving
