When a motorist’s full attention is not on the road, this is considered distracted driving. Distracted driving can occur in many different ways. Some of the more common behaviors are when a motorist uses electronics, eats or drinks, or talks to their passengers while behind the wheel all of which can lead to a serious collision. According to statistics, nearly 80% of auto collisions involve some form of distracted driving. This is an extremely high percentage that could be prevented. If a motorist does not divert their attention from the road, they can keep everyone on the road safe from harm. Distracted driving does not allow motorists enough time to react to changing road conditions and hazards. It is imperative for motorists to only focus on the road and their surroundings to prevent serious accidents from occurring. If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident as a result of distracted driving, please read on and contact a qualified St. Mary’s County Car Accident Lawyer who can help you seek reasonable compensation for your economic and noneconomic damages.
What is distracted driving?
When a motorist diverts their attention from the road it is considered distracted driving. Whether the motorist is talking or texting on their phone, eating or drinking, grooming themselves, or talking to passengers, these common distractions behind the wheel can lead to serious collisions. Distractions behind the wheel are broken down into different categories. For instance, visual distractions occur when a motorist moves their eyes from the road to turn to talk to a person or is looking out the window at a billboard. An auditory distraction occurs when a motorist shifts their attention to focus on a conversation occurring in the vehicle. Manual distractions occur when a motorist moves their hands away from the wheel. Cognitive distractions occur when a motorist loses focus on the road because their mind wanders off. Regardless of which type of distraction a motorist engages in, they are putting everyone including themselves in danger. While behind the wheel, it is imperative for motorists to keep their attention on the road and their surroundings to ensure they have enough time to react to changing road conditions and hazards. Distracted driving is not only dangerous, but it is illegal. Maryland enforces strict cell phone laws to deter motorists from using their hand-held devices while behind the wheel. It is important to abide by the rules of the road to keep everyone safe.
It is imperative for motorists to only focus on driving while they are behind the wheel. In the unfortunate event that you have been injured in a car accident as a result of a distracted driver, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our skilled and experienced team members. Our firm is committed to helping our clients achieve a favorable outcome.
