One of the best ways to prevent car accidents is to avoid distractions. Don’t use a cell phone while behind the wheel. Don’t eat while driving. Don’t apply makeup. To reduce your risk of a crash, keep your focus on driving and nothing else.
Unfortunately, more and more people in Massachusetts are becoming distracted while driving, according to a recent MassLive article. Authorities have seen a spike in citations and warnings given by police over the past four months. The rise in distracted driving is linked to the following:
- Stepped-up enforcement.
- Higher traffic levels as Massachusetts fully reopens after the pandemic.
An experienced personal injury lawyer knows distracted driving is one of the top causes of car accidents. Careless drivers put everyone sharing the road at risk when their attention is diverted.
Examples of distracted driving
The MassLive article states that the number of distracted driving-related citations and warnings has exploded between January and March as traffic has rebounded after dropping off significantly a year ago during the early days of the pandemic.
Traffic tends to increase during the summer months, which means the distracted driving trend may increase. It’s a good time to consider your driving habits and understand that distractions are a top cause of accidents.
Here are some common examples of distracted driving:
Texting or talking on a cellphone
Texting, checking social media, surfing the internet, and even talking on your phone can have tragic consequences on the road. Drivers should pull over to a safe location if they need to use their phones.
Personal grooming
Some drivers who perhaps are running late for work or an appointment might be tempted to put on makeup or shave while on the road. Leave yourself time and take care of personal grooming at home, not behind the wheel.
Eating and drinking
Taking a sip of a soda or a bite of a sandwich might not seem like a big deal, but drivers are taking a hand off the wheel and are diverting their attention.
Daydreaming
Getting lost in thought means a driver’s focus is not on the road.
Talking to other passengers
Drivers who talk to passengers or look at others in the car are distracted and at higher risk of causing an accident.
Using devices in the vehicle
Many modern cars are equipped with GPS devices and entertainment systems. Drivers who adjust equipment such as climate control or mirrors are taking their attention off the road.
How an attorney can help after a distracted driving accident
Distracted driving accidents happen every day in Massachusetts and across the United States. Some of them result in serious injuries and even death. If you are a victim or lost a loved one because of someone else’s careless actions behind the wheel, you should discuss the accident with an experienced attorney in Massachusetts.
We know how devastating car crashes can be. We know that insurance companies might downplay your injuries and try to convince you to accept a small settlement. A knowledgeable attorney can fight for you and help you pursue maximum compensation for your losses. Tell them you mean business. Contact the Law Offices of Mark E. Salomone today for a free consultation.