According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, nearly one-third of all car accident deaths are caused by driver distractions. In 2015, 3,477 people and 391,000 were injured in distracted driving accidents.
In general, distracted driving is considered performing another task that takes your attention away from operating your vehicle. It takes your eyes off the road, hands off the steering wheel, and mind away from the primary task of driving.
Common causes of distracted driving include the following:
- Cellphones – Whether you are texting or talking to someone else, cellphones are the main causes of distracted driving accidents over the past decade. Sending or reading a text takes your eyes off the road for five seconds, and if you are driving 55 mph, it is like driving the entire length of the football field blindfolded.
- Eating or drinking – In order to save time, many people consume food while driving. However, a beverage or a burger in your hand can delay your reaction in the event of an unexpected road situation, leading to a crash.
- Talking to passengers – Engaging in a deep conversation with someone in your vehicle an take your attention away from driving.
- Grooming – When people are running late to work, an important appointment, or a date, they attempt to either brush their hair or apply their makeup while driving.
- Spacing out – There are many instances where the minds of drivers simply wander long enough to cause a collision.
If you suffered an injury caused by a distracted driver in Northern California, request a free consultation with our Sacramento personal injury attorney today.