Drivers Fail to Take Dangers of Distracted Driving Seriously
The dangers of distracted driving are well-documented. However, many drivers continue to fail to take the dangers of distracted driving seriously. Unfortunately, they ignore the laws banning texting while driving or using hand-held cell phones while driving. They ignore the warnings about distractions causing traffic accidents. Therefore, distractions continue to be a common cause of many car crashes.
Drivers Admit They Engage in Distracted Driving
In a recent survey conducted by The Zebra, over one-half of the respondents admitted that they eat while driving. Other distractions drivers admitted to doing while driving include:
- Texting while driving – 23.6%
- Taking photos – 11.7%
- Applying makeup – 6.5%
Surprisingly, just over one-third of respondents (36.4%) agreed that using a cell phone or mobile device impairs a driver’s ability to drive. Yet, in the same survey, 36% of respondents admitted to using a cell phone or mobile device while driving.
Numerous studies have researched the danger of texting while driving. Research indicates that texting and driving limits a driver’s capacity for focus and awareness, similar to drunk driving. However, less than one-half of the people surveyed believed that texting while driving was just as dangerous as drinking and driving.
What Are the Dangers of Distracted Driving?
Causing an automobile accident tops the list of the dangers of distracted driving. When a driver engages in any activity other than driving, the distraction impairs the driver’s ability to control the vehicle, which increases the risk of a crash. A distracted driving accident can cause catastrophic injuries to the drivers and occupants of each vehicle. However, bicyclists and pedestrians may also sustain traumatic injuries because of a distracted driver.
Common injuries sustained in a distracted driving accident include:
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Scarring and lacerations
- Skull fractures
- Internal organ damage
- Broken bones and fractures
- Paralysis and spinal cord injuries
- Neck and back injuries
- Loss of limbs and amputations
- Wrongful death
The victim of a distracted driving accident may sustain permanent disabilities or impairments. In some cases, victims do not survive because of injuries caused by a distracted driving crash. Therefore, the damages caused by a distracted driving accident can total hundreds of thousands or millions of dollars for a lifetime of lost wages and ongoing personal care.
Damages You Can Recover for a Car Accident Claim
The damages you might receive because of an accident caused by a distracted driver depend on the facts of your case. However, most accident victims can receive compensation for their:
- Medical care and treatment
- Loss of salaries, benefits, wages, and other income
- Permanent disabilities and impairments
- Decreases in future earning potential
- Physical pain and suffering
- Mental anguish and emotional distress
- Loss of enjoyment of life and decrease in the quality of life
The value of a distracted driving accident claim depends on numerous factors. Our legal team works with you to document your injuries and damages. Careful documentation of damages maximizes the value of your injury claim.
Contact Our Erie Distracted Driving Accident Lawyer for a Free Consultation
Distracted drivers cause thousands of accidents each year. You deserve fair compensation if a distracted driver causes your injuries.
Contact our office today by calling (800) 401-2066 to request your free legal consultation with an Erie car accident attorney.