Distracted Driving Causes Accidents

 Posted on May 18, 2018 in Blog Post

Distracted driving has become a problem in recent years, with the number of crashes involving distracted drivers steadily increasing year after year, according to the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) estimated that 3,477 people were killed in car crashes involving a distracted driver and another 391,000 injured in 2015.

What Is Distracted Driving?

When people talk about distracted driving, oftentimes the conversation revolves around texting and driving, but that’s not the only distraction that could take your mind off the road. The NHTSA has identified three main types of distractions:

• Visual - taking your eyes off the road;
• Manual - taking your hands off the steering wheel; and
• Cognitive - taking your mind off the road.

Generally, the definition of distracted driving is engaging in any non-driving activity while operating a motor vehicle. These activities can distract the person from driving and greatly increase the risk of crashing.

Examples of Distracted Driving

Though texting and driving is one of the most commonly cited reasons for being distracted while driving, there are many others that can affect your ability to pay attention to the road. These distractions can include:

• Talking on a cell phone, whether hands-free or not;
• Using a navigation system;
• Eating while driving;
• Changing the music;
• Using an app;
• Checking email; and
• Taking a photo.

Texting while driving poses a great threat because it is an example of all three types of distraction - visual, manual and cognitive. The average person takes their eyes off the road for about 5 seconds, or enough time to drive the length of a football field if you’re going 55 mph.

Consequences of Distracted Driving

The state of Illinois has banned all hand-held cell phone use for any driver. Drivers over the age of 19 are permitted to use a cell phone in a hands-free mode. If a person is caught using a cell phone while driving, they are subject to a $75 fine for a first offense. If the person gets into an accident involving great bodily harm, permanent disability or disfigurement to another, the person is charged with a Class A misdemeanor. If the accident results in the death of another, the person is charged with a Class 4 felony.

Contact a Park Ridge Car Accident Attorney

If you’ve been involved in a car accident due to distracted driving, you need the help of an experienced Park Ridge car accident lawyer. Quinn Law Group, LLC can help you understand your options and receive the compensation you deserve. Call 847-232-7180 to schedule a free consultation.

Sources:

https://crashstats.nhtsa.dot.gov/Api/Public/ViewPublication/812381

http://www.nhtsa.gov.edgesuite-staging.net/Driving+Safety/Distracted+Driving/Policy+Statement+and+Compiled+FAQs+on+Distracted+Driving

https://www.dmv.org/distracted-driving.php

http://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/ilcs5.asp?ActID=1815&ChapterID=49