What is Distracted Driving?

In the technological era in which we live, many Americans assume that distracted driving refers to individuals either talking on their cell phones or texting while behind the wheel. However, distracted driving extends much further than just the electronic gadgets and devices which have recently come into the possession of what seems like every American out on the roadways. Distracted driving has been a problem and major cause of accidents much before the invention of the cell phone or other handheld device. While cell phones do currently represent the main distraction to American drivers, there are many other items and activities that contribute to distracted driving in today’s day and age.

If you are a distracted driver, you are at risk to be the cause behind a crash or accident or victim to somebody else crashing in to you. Being a distracted driver means that you put yourself, your family, and every other innocent stranger on the road in danger of serious damages, including death. Some examples that may lead to the labeling of a distracted driver include tuning the radio, changing the station, eating, drinking, or smoking while behind the wheel. These activities happen all the time, and drivers rarely are aware that they are engaging in distracting, life-threatening behavior.

The list goes on and on. If you pick something up from the floor or between the seats, analyze other cars driving by, write, read, reach for the glove compartment or center console, take off your shoes, try to clean the inside of your windshield, use eye drops, unwrap a piece of gum, brush your hair, break up fights between your kids, or attempt to polish/trim your fingernails while you are operating a vehicle, then you are undoubtedly partaking in distracted driving and have a much higher chance of injuring yourself or others in a car accident.

In order to avoid accidents, practice these six simple tips that could end up saving you or your loved one’s life:

1.    Avoid using cell phones or other hand held devices until your car is completely stopped or pulled over.
2.    Limit interactions with passengers.
3.    Keep both hands on the wheel at all times.
4.    Avoid driving while fatigued and stay focused on the road ahead of you.
5.    Do not drive while angry or upset, as emotions can interfere with your safety.
6.    Avoid staring at other vehicles, accidents, or interesting attractions along the road.

It is imperative that all drivers refrain form these distracting activities while they are driving. When you are doing all these other things behind the wheel, not only could you find yourself in a serious auto accident, but you could also be victim to ruining other peoples’ property, damaging your car, losing your license, going to jail, and paying large, unnecessary fines for insurance, hospital, and other financial costs that are avoidable. Please be careful, drive safely, and use your best judgment behind the wheel.

Cline Farrell Christie Lee & Caress are personal injury attorneys in Indianapolis helping those who have been injured by a distracted driver or other type of traffic accident. Visit their website at www.cfclc-law.com for more information.