More than 3,000 people die each year in the United States because of drivers who aren’t focused solely on driving. That equates to an average of nine deaths per day caused by distracted driving.
This is a major safety issue because it’s one that’s fully preventable. Once a driver gets behind the wheel, they shouldn’t let anything else claim their attention.
There are multiple types of distractions
Distracted driving comes in many forms. The United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recognizes three types of distractions that affect drivers: manual, visual and cognitive. While it’s possible that a distraction will fall solely into one of these categories, many are associated with more than one type.
Many people think of actions like sending a text message when they think of distracted driving, but there are other actions that also fall under this umbrella. Looking at billboards on the side of the road, eating something, reaching to change the climate control or trying to hand something to an occupant are all examples of distractions.
Multitasking is always dangerous
There aren’t any safe ways for a driver to multitask while they’re driving. Even a five-second distraction can be catastrophic. In that period, a vehicle can move the length of a football field if it’s going 55 miles per hour. That’s enough distance and time for a crash to occur.
Annually, an estimated 424,000 people are injured by distracted drivers. If you’re one of those, you should seek immediate medical care. You may also opt to pursue a compensation claim to help offset the financial damages caused by the crash.