Distracted driving killed 3,166 people in 2017, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). While texting and driving is a major form of distracted driving, it is not the only behavior that poses risks to motorists and pedestrians.
Learn what constitutes distracted driving to keep yourself safe on the road.
What is Distracted Driving?
Distracted driving is any activity that takes a driver’s attention away from driving. The following are common examples of distracted driving:
- Eating or drinking
- Applying makeup
- Talking to passengers
- Fiddling with the radio
- Managing children or pets
- Using a smartphone for navigation
While all of these behaviors are dangerous, the act of using a smartphone while driving is particularly hazardous. When a motorist uses a smartphone while driving, their mind, eyes, and hands are taken off the vehicle and the road.
In fact, sending or reading a text takes a driver’s eyes off the road for five seconds; at 55 miles per hour, this is equivalent to driving the length of a football field while blindfolded.
Injured by a Distracted Driver? We’re Here to Help
If you or someone you love has been injured in an accident caused by a distracted driver, our Jackson personal injury attorneys are here to help. We take pride in providing compassionate counsel and aggressive representation for those in need.
Contact ‘MAGGIO LAW today at (601) 265-6869 to speak with our team.