Coloradans are no strangers to the problems that distracted driving can cause. In fact, distracted driving is still one of the leading causes of auto accidents in the United States. Learning to recognize behaviors that are considered distracted driving may help save you from an accident either one you cause or being a victim of an accident that is someone else’s fault.
Here are a few of the most frequently observed examples of distracted driving from our team of Aurora car accident lawyers.
Using Cell Phones and Other Devices
One of the most common causes of distracted driving and also one of the most heavily penalized is the use of cell phones while driving. This now extends to a number of different smart devices, but things like talking on the phone, texting, using navigation apps, and social media are all incredibly distracting.
Distracted driving accidents related to phone use have become so common that many states have decided to completely outlaw the use of cell phones while driving or put very specific regulations in place regarding their operation while behind the wheel of a motor vehicle. The penalties can be quite severe, so it is something that should definitely be avoided.
Eating While Driving
We’ve all been there, in a hurry, and don’t have time to eat a proper lunch. So we swing through the local drive through and grab a combo meal and keep driving. While it might not seem like a big deal, a single second of distraction trying to reach for that french fry or find the ketchup can lead to an accident, especially if you’re traveling at a high rate of speed, such as down a highway.
Passengers and Pets in the Vehicle
We don’t always think about it, but one of the most distracting things while driving can often be the people we are riding with. When engaging in deep conversation it can be easy to get distracted, especially if we’re trying to focus on the person we’re talking to. It’s easy to accidentally turn to face the person we’re talking to and wind up in a collision.
This includes not only adult passengers, but also when you have children in the vehicle as well. Children playing or fighting in the backseat can be a major distraction and trying to control the situation in the car and drive at the same time is always a struggle. Remember never to take your eyes off the road until the vehicle is safely stopped and to always use car safety seats for children.
Lastly, pets that are allowed to roam free in the vehicle while the vehicle is in motion can also be a distraction while driving. Having an animal suddenly react to road noise, jump, or walk over you can interfere with your ability to drive and may cause an accident.
Applying Cosmetics
Much like with eating while driving, trying to apply cosmetics while driving is not only a distraction, it can be dangerous for you and other vehicles. Even if stopped at a red light, the time it takes to apply eyeliner, lipstick and other things could easily be enough time to cause an accident if you aren’t focused on the road.
These are just a few of the most common causes of distracted driving that our Aurora personal injury lawyers have experienced and recommend avoiding to prevent dangerous accidents on the road.
