National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) data shows that distracted driving is one of the top reasons that motorists either nearly miss crashes or are involved in them. Although texting and driving has been illegal in the state of Michigan since July of 2010, motorists often take a chance and do it anyway. Countless pedestrians, bicyclists, motorcyclists and vehicle operators lose their lives because of this.
Activities that fall under the umbrella of distracted driving include drinking, engaging with passengers in dialogue, reading, using the cellphone to text or make calls, eating or watching a video. Listening to loud music, using a global positioning system (GPS) or changing the radio station is also considered to be distracting.
The problem with distractions is that they affect motorists on three different levels. They physically distract drivers by forcing them to remove their hands from the wheel. They take a motorist’s eyes off the road and their minds off of driving as well.
Motorists can avoid becoming distracted while driving by presetting the temperature in the car or stations on the radio. If driving a new car, it’s important for a motorist to familiarize themselves with the car’s equipment while in a parking lot away from others. If you’re unfamiliar with where you’re going, then you’ll want to consult your directions before you take off.
If something falls off the seat and becomes out of reach, then it’s critical that you not attempt to reach it until you’ve stopped. If a child becomes ill or acts out while you’re driving, then it’s best to pull over to the side of the road in a safe location instead of trying to assist them as you drive.
When you suffer injuries in an auto accident, it can throw your whole schedule out of whack. Victims are often forced to balance working with getting their car repaired and making it to doctor’s visits. Individuals who are hurt in more severe crashes may be too badly injured that they’re unable to work.
You may wonder how to cover everyday living expenses while you’re recuperating. It can be helpful to have a Rochester personal injury attorney on your side, who is a hands-on partner that will fight for you.
