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The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has deemed April 2014 to be National Distracted Driving Awareness Month. In lieu of this declaration, Jones & Swanson is providing information on the dangers of distracted driving.
As a part of the education to drivers, the NHTSA released a grim advertisement campaign that uses the slogan “U Drive. U Text. U Pay.” The videos depict the driver and passengers in a vehicle that is being operated by someone using a cell phone, depicting the possible terrifying outcome as a result. In addition to these advertisements and providing helpful information to lessen the number of distracted drivers on roadways, the Department of Transportation is coordinating with law enforcement officials to crack down drivers using cell phones while behind the wheel.
What is the reason for this crackdown on distracted driving? Reports show that in 2012 alone, 3,328 people lost their lives and another 421,000 experienced injuries as a result of distracted driving automobile crashes. Talking or using a cell phone while driving is said to increase one’s chances of being involved in an accident by four. Despite these facts, 2/3 drivers said they talked on their cell phones while driving in a 2012 survey. Distracted driving is not just a danger on Georgia roads, it is an epidemic.
In the state of Georgia, there is a ban on all cell phone use for bus and novice drivers, including not only handheld but also hands-free devices. In addition to that, all drivers are banned from texting. Police officers can pull divers over for these offenses without another violation taking place.
While texting and talking on phones is the most common form of distracted driving, there are numerous other activities that inhibit one’s driving abilities. These include eating and drinking, reading, using navigation systems, adjusting the radio, and much more.
At Jones & Swanson, many of our car accident cases in which serious injuries are sustained were caused by other drivers being distracted behind the wheel. For this reason, distracted driving prevention is near to our hearts. The NHTSA believes that the best method to end distracted driving is to educate drivers, so it is now in your hands to make Georgia roads safer for everyone. For more information about distracted driving or if you were injured in a crash as a result of another’s negligence, contact Attorney Andrew Jones today for a legal consultation. We will work diligently to protect you and have your best interests at heart.
