Distracted Driving Awareness Month

April is National Distracted Driving Awareness Month – reminding us all to evaluate current efforts being made to alter driving habits around the United States. While technological advancements have improved vehicle safety year after year, certain types of technology also tempt us with added distractions while behind the wheel.

The numbers don’t lie – reckless and distracted driving is the number one killer of teens in the U.S. There are countless forms of distracted driving, such as eating, changing the radio station, applying makeup, and even conversing with others in the vehicle. Possibly the most dangerous form of distracted driving, though, is cell phone use. Even with the introduction of hands free devices and automobiles offering hands free services, cell phones remain a dangerous form of distraction while behind the wheel of a vehicle. Social media platforms like Snapchat, Instagram, and Facebook have only caused distracted driving numbers to rise – though many states have begun cracking down on these activities.

There are so many distractions in today’s world, so it’s easy to get caught up in other things while driving. It only takes a single instant to cause a devastating accident. In the blink of an eye, lives can be transformed forever. Sending a text message, scrolling through a playlist, or taking a phone call while driving can have tragic consequences.

Experts sort distracted driving into three major categories:

1. Visual – taking your eyes off the road to look at the scenery or even to catch a glimpse of another car.
2. Manual – taking your hands off the wheel to do other things like texting, taking a phone call, scrolling through your phone, or turning up the radio.
3. Cognitive – taking your mind off the road.

Operating a cell phone while driving involves all three types of these distracted driving.

The attorneys at Jones & Swanson represent victims of automobile accidents every day. Our firm has seen the devastating, and often fatal, effects distracted driving can cause. We strongly advise adults and teens to put down their cell phones and other distractions while driving. Discourage others from operating a vehicle while distracted and take a stand today!

If you or a loved one has been injured because of a distracted driver, the attorneys at Jones & Swanson are ready to help you. If you have questions or concerns, please feel free to contact us at 770-427-5498 to set up your free consultation today!