Every day, around nine individuals are killed due to distracted driving. According to statistics, over 1,000 people are injured every day in incidents involving a distracted driver.
Distractions include anything that diverts your focus away from driving. Distracted driving includes sending a text message, conversing on a mobile phone, using a navigation system, and eating while driving. Any of these distractions can put you, your passengers, and others on the road in danger.
Distractions are classified into three types:
- Visual: diverting your gaze away from the road
- Manual: removing your hands from the steering wheel
- Cognitive: diverting your attention away from driving
When a distracted driver is to blame for your accident, you need the assistance of an Athens car accident lawyer who will accept your case. Even if a distracted driver is involved, the Athens accident lawyers can help you with your vehicle collision case. They will fight for your legal rights and obtain the money you are entitled to.
How to avoid distraction during driving
Distracted driving is more common on the road now than ever before. With so many gadgets and stuff in a car, it’s easy for a driver to become distracted without even realizing it. These distractions can lead a driver to lose control of their vehicle or collide with the car in front of them without recognizing it.
When you are involved in an accident caused by a distracted driver, you will require the assistance of an Athens car accident lawyer.
Here are some tips that you can follow to avoid distraction while driving.
Make yourself at ease before you go.
Make sure you’re comfy and ready to go before backing out of your driveway. Adjust your reflectors, backrest settings, radio program, temperature settings, and air vents to avoid fiddling with them throughout your drive.
Phones, the major distractions
Driving while talking or texting is one of the most dangerous things you can do. If you can’t resist the lure of a ringing phone, switch it off while driving or store it somewhere tough to reach. Pull over to discuss if you’re waiting for an important call. Even hands-free communication is distracting. Concentrate on the road when you’re driving.
Before you drive, eat something.
It’s easy to eat on the move, but handling a toast or a cup of hot while driving is a combination of tragedy. Dine before you leave, or if you must stop while driving, avoid the drive-thru and eat inside instead. Not only will you be safer, but you will also prevent spilling on yourself and your vehicle.
If you dropped something, do not pick it up.
Have you ever lost your handbag or wallet while driving? Do not grab for anything. It can wait till you arrive at your destination. If the fallen object is in a potentially dangerous spot, for example, it might slide beneath your brake or gas pedals, pull over as quickly as possible and pick it up.
Plan your journey.
If you’re traveling somewhere you’ve never been before, consult a map and have a solid idea of where you need to go before starting your car. If you’re using a GPS, input your destination and double-check it before departing. Turn up the volume so you can listen to the GPS instead of looking at the screen for directions.
Give your children your complete attention.
Long driving trips may make children cranky. Pull over if your children are misbehaving or need assistance in the backseat.
Prepare yourself before you depart.
Before getting in the car, knot your tie, pull over your socks, wear your shoes, straighten your hair and makeup, and arrange your wardrobe. Remove tight coats before starting your car, rather than attempting to shuffle out of them. If you’re at a signal, don’t fumble with your jacket. You’re missing what’s happening around you.
Maintain your focus on the road
Don’t get distracted by large billboards, businesses, or activities along the route. Maintain your focus on the road ahead and pay attention to what other vehicles are doing. It would help if you constantly stayed attentive and on the lookout for any hazards.
Conclusion
Any form of distraction is harmful to one’s performance. Whether you are walking or driving, if you allow yourself to become distracted, you run the risk of causing serious accidents, some of which can be fatal. A professional lawyer is the only one who can assist you when a distracted driver is engaged in a vehicle accident. They can demonstrate a distracted driver’s carelessness and work to win your case. Allow your experienced lawyer to fight for your legal rights. If you hire an Athens car accident lawyer, you’ll have access to legal representation for the duration of your case. Assisting and advocating for your interests in court is what they do.