Distracted driving is very dangerous. It can impact someone’s reaction times and it’s very similar to drunk driving or fatigued driving. People simply make more mistakes when they’re distracted, and they cause accidents and they injure others more often than they otherwise would accordingly.
To combat this risk, Florida and many other states have made activities like texting and driving illegal. They want to try to limit distractions on the road so that people can stay safe. But this has proven very hard to do. Distracted driving accidents continue to occur daily and there are a few key reasons why this is so.
Phones can be addictive
Even phone companies admit that the devices can be addictive. People can develop use disorders because they are accustomed to being on their phone at all times. This sort of constant connection that the internet has created has never before existed in human history, and people who are addicted may not be able to put their phones down even as they understand the dangers involved in checking them while behind the wheel. Maybe they put their phone on the seat next to them while they’re driving so that they won’t look at the screen. But then they hear it ring or buzz, and the addiction takes over. They can’t help picking it up, and then they cause an accident as a result.
Distraction involves more than just phones
It’s also worth noting that phones are not the only things that cause distracted driving incidents. They are just one of the most common culprits, likely because most people have smartphones and because of the addiction issues noted above. But there are many different sources of distraction that can impact a driver who doesn’t even have their phone in the car. Maybe they need to adjust the steering wheel or the mirrors. Perhaps they are talking to passengers or children. Maybe they’re just getting lost in thought or singing along with the music on the radio. All of these activities can pull some of a motorist’s attention away from the road and cause an accident.
Until distracted driving accidents become far, far less common, all travelers need to be aware that if they’re hurt due to another’s negligence or recklessness, they may be entitled to compensation. Seeking legal guidance is a good way to start making informed decisions in this regard.