What You Need to Know about Distracted Driving
Distracted driving is driving while simultaneously focusing attention on another activity. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there are three types of distraction: visual, cognitive, and manual.
3 Types of Driving Distraction
- Visual distraction is when you take your eyes off driving.
- Cognitive distraction is when your mind is not focused on driving.
- Manual distraction is when you use your hands to do something other than maneuver the steering wheel.
Manual and visual distractions include using in-vehicle technologies such as navigation systems, music, or eating. Talking on a cell phone may involve cognitive and/or manual distraction. But texting typically involves all three types of distraction, increasing the risk of losing control of the vehicle and/or crashing.
- According to www.distraction.gov, a recent survey of young people yielded over 70% admitting to having sent a text while driving.
- And, in 2013, over 3,000 individuals were killed on S. roadways as a result of distracted driving.
Important Statistics
- Cell phone use as a factor in vehicle crashes is significantly under-reported.
- The National Safety Council (NSC) estimates that at least 20% or 1.1 million motor vehicle crashes in 2013 involved cell phone use.
- NSC estimates that another 6% or 341,000 crashes in 2013 involved text messaging.
- These estimates point to at least 26% of all 2013 vehicle crashes involving cell phone calls or texting.
- Drivers under 20 years old are at increased risk for fatal crashes due to distracted driving.
5 Changes You Can Make Today to Drive Safer
- Make a Family Pledge to drive without distractions. Set the example and lead your family to a healthier, safer future. For sample, pledge forms, visit the resource download section of www.distraction.gov.
- Turn off or silence cell phone or leave it in the glove compartment before starting your car. It can be very tempting for many people to answer a phone call or text when they hear that special ring.
- Set up the navigation system and music playlists before driving. Pull off the road and stop the car if you need to modify these.
- Install and use an app that disables use while driving to prevent temptation.
- Begin your own calls (when not driving) by requesting that anyone who is driving call back once they are parked in a safe place.
Taking these precautions will allow you to be in control of your cell phone instead of the reverse and increase your ability to travel calmly and safely. Click here for infographic.
If you have questions about cell phones or texting and driving, Goldman & Daszkal, P.A. can answer them. Contact us at (954) 428-9333 or www.goldmandaszkal.com.
Since 1990, Goldman & Daszkal, P.A. has provided reputable legal representation to people throughout Palm Beach, Broward, and Miami-Dade Counties. The firm has helped thousands of individuals recover compensation from motor vehicle and boating accidents, slip and fall accidents, product defect and liability cases, pharmacy errors, and negligent security cases to cover medical expenses, pay bills, take care of their families, and return to work. Goldman & Daszkal, P.A. can help you get the relief you need to start living your life again after a serious injury. For a free and confidential consultation, contact Goldman & Daszkal, P.A., at (954) 428-9333.