If you’re someone who likes to crank up the tunes, chat with passengers, or maybe even snack a bit while driving, you might want to hit the brakes on those habits. Distracted driving is a serious issue, and understanding its various forms could mean the difference between a safe trip and a collision.
When your eyes, hands, or mind are off the task at hand — namely, driving — you’re less prepared to handle unexpected road conditions or changes in traffic flow. In fact, according to the DMV, drowsy driving alone contributes to more than (100,000) crashes each year, resulting in roughly (40,000) injuries and (6,400) deaths.
If you’d like to hear more from a seasoned New York attorney directly, we encourage you to call Schwartzapfel Lawyers now at 516-342-2200. You may also go online to schedule a free consultation.
It’s important to know what you’re up against on the road, and this guide will give you the edge you need for safer driving habits. So, what are the three (3) main categories of distracted driving? Let’s find out.
1. Visual Distractions
You know what we mean — those tempting glances at the GPS, skipping through a Spotify playlist, or maybe even checking out a billboard for a split second. These are all visual distractions that can make you lose focus on what’s happening right in front of your bumper. In moments like these, every second counts.
2. Manual Distractions
If you find that you’re often reaching for your coffee cup or fiddling with the air conditioner, you’re not exactly setting yourself up for safe driving. Trust us on this one — we’ve seen enough cases to know. What’s more, it only takes repeating these actions a few times before they become a bad habit — a bad habit that could cost you everything.
3. Cognitive Distractions
Ever zone out while driving? You’re not alone. Cognitive distractions pull your mental focus away from driving, whether that’s due to stress, fatigue, or having a heated conversation with a passenger (in-person or on the phone).
As you can imagine, this doesn’t bode well for anyone, especially if you’re operating heavy machinery at (60) miles per hour.
What Laws Apply To Distracted Driving?
New York State has fairly stern regulations when it comes to distracted driving. Activities like talking on a cell phone or texting are especially problematic because they fall under all three categories of distracted driving. Federal law even steps in, barring commercial drivers from using handheld mobile devices while driving.
Understanding all the different forms of distracted driving can be challenging. That’s why you should reach out to the skilled NYS legal team of Schwartzapfel Lawyers to make sure you’re on the right path.
To that end, simply dial 516-342-2200 or visit us online today to be connected with a knowledgeable lawyer who will fight for you. And please note: You have a limited time to collect all the money and benefits you’re entitled to, so you shouldn’t wait, or your window to recover could close forever.
Instead, you can make one phone call that may well save you miles of headache, heartache, and financial strain down the road. Dial 516-342-2200 today!
What Are The Statistics On Distracted Driving?
Let’s add some numerical gravity to the discussion. Numbers have a way of putting things in perspective, making them a bit more real. In case you’re not convinced that distracted driving is an issue of paramount concern, maybe these statistics will do the talking.
Every five (5) seconds, a vehicle crashes on U.S. roads, and someone loses their life to a crash every (12) minutes. No, we’re not just throwing numbers for dramatic effect; this is the dire reality of road safety today.
In 2021 alone, (3,522) people were killed in incidents involving distracted drivers. That’s up considerably from the (2,880) distracted driving deaths that occurred in 2020. Granted, fewer people were on the road that year due to the COVID-19 outbreak.
Compared to the year prior in 2019, when driving numbers were business as usual, 2021’s statistics are still higher. According to the NHTSA, there were (3,142) distracted driving deaths in 2019 — (380) fewer deathsthan in 2021.
So, what’s the outcome of all these statistics? Families are thrown into turmoil, and countless lives are altered. Distracted driving is serious business, and until it happens to you, it’s hard to understand just how quickly chaos can ensue over something as harmless as changing the song on your playlist.
Distracted Driving’s Contribution
As scary as these statistics are, they don’t stop there. Studies reveal that 25% to 30% of all road crashes can be attributed to distracted driving. Translate that to around (4,000) crashes per day.
On-The-Clock Accidents
What makes this even more concerning is that many of these crashes happen during working hours, potentially putting employers in a tough spot financially. Aside from the emotional toll, think about the increase in insurance premiums and the cost of repairs.
Moreover, getting in a car wreck while you’re working often has one of two outcomes: you hurt yourself, either physically or by putting your job in jeopardy. Or, you hurt someone else, which could lead to a big settlement. Either way, it’s hot water you don’t want to be in.
Whether you’re the person responsible for an on-the-clock accident or you’re the victim of one, it’s vital that you have a seasoned car accident lawyer in your corner. Call Schwartzapfel Lawyers now at 516-342-2200 to discuss your rights. Alternatively, visit us online to schedule your free consultation and/or case evaluation today!
The Employer’s Role
Companies aren’t exempt from the impact of these statistics. Employers often find themselves responsible for various costs tied to incidents on company time. If your company lacks a policy on distracted driving, now would be a good moment to draft one. Employee safety isn’t just a priority; it’s a necessity.
Time For Action
If you or a loved one has been involved in an incident caused by distracted driving, you should know that the law is on your side. The award-winning attorneys of Schwartzapfel Lawyers are here to assist you. Simply dial 516-342-2200 or visit us online to speak with a skilled member of our team today.
What Are Some Strategies For Eliminating Distractions While Driving?
When it comes to driving, multitasking is a myth. The key to safer driving is undivided attention. Here are some best practices to keep distractions at bay.
- Focus And Fundamentals: Keeping your hands on the wheel and your eyes on the road should be automatic, like breathing. It might sound like Driving 101, but you’d be surprised how often people need a reminder.
- Pre-Drive Preparations: Get all your ducks in a row before you hit the road. That means adjusting mirrors, setting your seat, and even pre-tuning your radio. If you need directions, either read them ahead of time or set up your navigation system before shifting into drive.
- Tech Etiquette: Smartphones might be smart, but they’re not intuitive enough to know when you’re driving. It’s on you to set your phone to “Do Not Disturb” and keep it out of arm’s reach. Silence is golden, especially on the road.
How Does Distracted Driving Affect Your Company’s Financial Health?
When an employee is involved in a vehicular incident, it isn’t just a personal misfortune. It’s also a corporate liability.
- The Financial Burden: According to OSHA, motor vehicle crashes levy a hefty $60billion toll on employers each year. This includes medical care, legal expenses, property damage, and that pesky thing called lost productivity.
- Cost Per Incident: The cost to employers for a single crash averages around $16,500. If an injury occurs, that number catapults to $74,000. As for a fatality, that can result in financial costs exceeding $500,000, not to mention the immeasurable emotional and human toll.
- The Preventable Nature: An encouraging aspect, however modest, is that the majority of these crashes can be avoided. Moreover, initiatives such as driver’s ed and other safe-driving programs can go a long way in reducing risks and, consequently, costs.
Affected by Distracted Driving? Call Schwartzapfel Lawyers Now
If you or a loved one has been affected by distracted driving or needs legal guidance on a personal injury case, please don’t hesitate. Your future is too important to leave to chance.
Contact Schwartzapfel Lawyers today at 516-342-2200 or visit us online to schedule your free consultation. Our seasoned team is here to protect your rights and ensure you receive all the money and benefits you are entitled to.
Don’t wait until it’s too late! It will be our honor and privilege to fight for you. Call now!
DISCLAIMER: Nothing on this page should be considered legal advice. You should seek the appropriate counsel your situation requires. For more information, call 1-516-342-2200 now!
Sources:
Schwartzapfel Lawyers, P.C. | Fighting For You
Distracted Driving Dangers and Statistics | NHTSA
Distracted Driving 2020 | NHTSA
Sleep first. Drive alert. Drowsy Driving Prevention Week® 2021 | National Sleep Foundation
