What Distracted Driving Behaviors Cause the Most Car Accidents?

 Posted on April 29, 2020 in Blog Post

April is National Distracted Driving Awareness Month. National campaigns aimed at reducing the number of distracted driving incidents have recognized the seriousness of the issue. Distracted driving is defined as engaging in other activities that take the driver’s attention away from the road. This type of behavior behind the wheel has been shown to compromise the safety of the driver, passengers, pedestrians, as well as other motorists. According to the Illinois State Police, driver inattention is a factor in over one million car accidents in the United States each year.

Types of Distraction

There are three main types of distraction when it comes to driving:

• Visual: Driver takes his or her eyes off the road
• Manual: Driver takes his or her hands off the wheel
• Cognitive: Driver takes his or her mind off of driving

Studies by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) show that when traveling at 55 mph, reading or sending a text message takes your eyes off the road for approximately five seconds, which is long enough for a car to cover the length of a football field. In these situations, it greatly reduces the driver’s stopping distance in the event the driver in front suddenly slows down or comes to a complete stop.

Reckless Actions Behind the Wheel

Under Illinois law, drivers are prohibited from using handheld cell phones, texting, or using other electronic devices while operating a motor vehicle. However, hands-free devices or BlueTooth technology is allowed for motorists who are age 19 and older.

Although some activities, such as talking with other occupants may not seem like risky behavior, it can cause a driver to lose control. If discussions lead to heated arguments, the driver may become agitated, taking his or her hands off the wheel to gesture or turn around to address passengers in the back seat. Similarly, consuming food or a beverage means a motorist is letting go of the steering wheel. Applying makeup may result in a driver taking both hands off the wheel, which can lead to him or her losing control and colliding with another vehicle, pedestrian, or structure.

A few of the main distracted driving behaviors that can lead to a collision include:

• Eating or drinking
• Reading/sending a text message
• Talking on a cell phone
• Using a navigation system
• Having a conversation with passengers
• Watching a video
• Putting on makeup or fixing hair

Contact a Glenview Car Accident Attorney

Today’s mobile technology allows us to do many things “on the go.” However, when this involves driving, it can have devastating consequences in some cases. Distracted driving is a leading cause of vehicle collisions. At the Quinn Law Group, LLC, we know the impact a car accident can have on you physically and mentally. Attorney Patrick Quinn has been a trial lawyer for over 10 years and has tried numerous cases to successful verdicts. Our dedicated Des Plaines personal injury lawyers will fight for your rights to compensation if a negligent driver caused your injuries. Call our office today at 847-232-7180 to schedule your free consultation.

Sources:

http://www.isp.state.il.us/traffic/distractdrive.cfm

https://www.cyberdriveillinois.com/departments/drivers/traffic_safety/distracted.html

https://www.cdc.gov/motorvehiclesafety/distracted_driving/index.html