One of the many reasons people are in car accidents is because of distracted driving – and it seems to be happening more and more. Distracted driving is, as the name implies, driving while preoccupied with something or someone.
There are many ways someone can become distracted while driving. Here are a few of the more likely causes of distracted driving:
Calling and texting
Phones aren’t what they used to be 10 or 20 years ago. Today, you have access to everything with a click on your phone: calls, texts, news, social media, music, movies, TV, shopping, games, books, etc.
Some people can’t seem to pull themselves away from their phones, especially in the car. Focusing on your phone while driving takes your attention from the road, leading to serious injuries.
To reduce distraction from your phone, you could turn it off, store it in your glove box or bag or place it in your car where you can’t reach it.
Eating while driving
Fast food is a great way to grab a quick meal to and from work or when you just don’t feel like cooking that way. It’s tempting, since you bought the food in your car, to eat your food in your car or on the road.
People may not realize that eating and driving can cause several distractions on their own. Unwrapping a meal can cause you to look away from the road. You may drop or spill something while eating. Further, you could get grease or sauce on your hands, making it harder to handle the steering wheel. If you have to eat in your car, you may consider stopping your car at a safe place to finish your meal.
If you were recently in a car accident because the other driver was distracted then you may need to seek legal help to recover from your losses.