The vast majority of car accidents are preventable. Despite advancements in vehicle technology, driver errors take thousands of lives every year.
According to research from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 69 percent of U.S. drivers between the ages 18-64 had talked on a cell phone while driving within one month of being surveyed. However, smartphones are only one cause of distracted-driving collisions. Other dangers include:
- Drinking and eating;
- Daydreaming;
- Misbehaving passengers;
- Distractions outside the vehicle;
- Smoking;
- And adjusting climate or audio controls.
If you were injured by a distracted driver, contact Christopher Trainor & Associates. An injury attorney in Detroit will guide you through the claims process. You may be entitled to compensation for lost income, medical bills and other damages.
Call 1-800-961-8477 today to discuss your legal options in a free consultation.
Here is a brief overview of seven common causes of distracted-driving accidents:
- Cell Phones
According to Distraction.gov, more than 600,000 drivers are using electronic devices or cell phones at any given daylight moment in the United States. Smartphones are particularly hazardous because they inhibit your visual, physical and cognitive abilities. If you cannot resist the urge to check texts, emails and phone calls, put your phone in the glove box, or turn it off before you start the engine.
- Drinking and Eating
Detroit has plenty of on-the-go dining options, but drinking and eating behind the wheel can be deadly. Not only will this distract your concentration, but you may not be able to avoid an unexpected hazard with only one hand on the wheel.
- Daydreaming
Being lost in thought is a leading cause of distracted-driving accidents. Fortunately, new technology, such as crash avoidance systems, is preventing these crashes.
- Misbehaving Passengers
Loud and misbehaving passengers are more dangerous than many people realize. This is why the state of Michigan has Graduated Driver’s License Level 2 Restrictions. In most cases, these drivers cannot operate a vehicle with more than one passenger who is younger than 21.
- Distractions outside the Vehicle
Billboards, accident scenes and other distractions outside the vehicle can draw a driver’s attention long enough to cause a serious accident. Try to resist the urge to gawk, and keep your eyes on the road at all times.
- Smoking
According to the U.S. National Library of Medicine, smokers are 1.5 times more likely to be involved in motor vehicle accidents. Lighting up, putting out a cigarette, and dropping a cigarette can all contribute to collisions.
- Adjusting Climate or Audio Controls
You may not notice an unexpected hazard if you are adjusting climate or audio controls. You should do this before you start the engine.
If you were injured by a reckless or negligent driver, contact Christopher Trainor & Associates. A Detroit personal-injury lawyer can gather evidence, talk to witnesses and handle settlement negotiations on your behalf. Schedule a free initial consultation by calling 1-800-961-8477.