Distracted Driving: The Causes and Consequences

July 22, 2019

Distracted Driving Statistics

Statistics suggest that nearly one in four fatal motor vehicle accidents are directly caused by distracted driving. An even more alarming trend is that teenagers and younger drivers are the most likely groups to drive distracted. 

It’s necessary to increase our collective awareness about the causes and consequences of distracted driving to help prevent these tragic car collisions. Keep reading to get the basics about this disturbing and growing trend. 

What Causes Distracted Driving?

Distracted driving happens when the person driving the car loses focus and takes their eyes away from the road. In many cases, the driver attempts to multitask. The number one reason why people get distracted is that they overestimate their ability to drive and do other activities at the same time. Here’s a list of the most common causes of distracted driving: 

• Attempting to text message
• Talking on a cell phone 
• Talking with passengers in the vehicle 
• Any sort of emotional distress that causes a loss of focus 
• Attempting to utilize a GPS system while driving 
• Attempting to change the radio or alter music controls 
• Trying to do makeup 
• Eating or drinking 
• Smoking 
• Dealing with children or pets 
• Zoning out or getting “lost in thought” 

It’s crucial for drivers not to get too comfortable while behind the wheel. It’s also important to put off driving, when possible, if you’re feeling fatigued, rushed or emotionally distressed. These factors impair your ability to drive more than you’d think. 

What Are the Consequences of Distracted Driving?

The consequences of driving while distracted can be life-altering and even life-ending. Car collisions are often fatal, especially when the person driving makes an error while not focused on the road. If you cause an accident while driving distracted, then you may be held financially liable for any injuries or property damage that results. On top of that, you could also find yourself facing: 

• Criminal penalties (fines, imprisonment, license restrictions) 
• Physical injuries from a collision 
• Civil lawsuits 
• Higher insurance rates 
• A loss of driving privileges 

These serious consequences are never worth the risk. Practice safer driving by only using your cell phone during emergency situations. If you feel tired or otherwise distracted, then don’t continue driving. Don’t try to multitask while driving. 

Contact a Morristown Personal Injury Lawyer to Discuss Your Distracted Driving Case in New Jersey

Did you or a loved one sustain serious injuries due to distracted driving in New Jersey? Don’t let the medical bills pile up while you wait for the negligent party or their insurance company to do the right thing. Right now, you need an aggressive personal injury attorney on your side, fighting to get you the compensation you need, want, and deserve. The skilled attorneys at Hoyt & Hoyt represent clients injured because of distracted driving in Morristown, New Brunswick and throughout New Jersey. Call (973) 718-7744 or fill out our online contact form to schedule a free consultation about your case. We have an office conveniently located at 67 East Park Place, 5th Floor, Morristown, NJ 07960 as well as offices in New Brunswick.

The articles on this blog are for informative purposes only and are no substitute for legal advice or an attorney-client relationship. If you are seeking legal advice, please contact our law firm directly.