As car accident attorneys in Memphis, we see crashes happen all the time that could have been prevented if the driver had just been focused.
Yes, focused. You don’t have to be under the influence to lose control of the car without even realizing it. It can and does happen because of distracted driving.
What Causes Distracted Driving?
The most infamous form of distraction on the road is the ever-tempting text message. Checking or sending a text takes your eyes off the road an average of 4.6 seconds at a time. At 55mph, that means you travel the length of a football field without looking. The result can be as dangerous and life-threatening as drunk driving.
But other forms of distracted driving can have the same effect, and a lot of people have no idea. Any activity that takes your eyes off the road for a few seconds can cause serious crashes. Consider these examples of things people do in their cars all the time:
- Eating
- Adjusting the radio
- Hair styling
- Turning around to talk to children in the back seat
- Applying makeup
- Using handheld phones for GPS
- Adjusting any GPS system
- Fixing one’s clothes
- Reading directions or notes
- Lighting a cigarette
- Pulling out sunglasses
- Putting in a CD
- Looking at someone in the passenger seat
- Dealing with a pet in the front seat
- Dialing a cell phone
How many drivers do we see engaging in these activities all the time? How many times do we multitask like this when we’re running behind?
Distracted Driving Accident Memphis TN Lawyer
There are countless other possibilities to add to this list, but the point is always the same: distracted driving kills. Stay focused on the road, and make sure your friends and family do the same.
If you’ve been injured in a distracted driving accident that wasn’t your fault, we can help. Contact our attorneys to talk for free about your situation.
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(Photo by Ariel da Silva Parreira)