The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that approximately 15 people are killed and 1,200 injured daily in accidents involving a distracted driver. Distracted driving is any activity that diverts the driver’s attention away from the primary task of driving. These disruptions can include visual (taking your eyes off the road), manual (taking your hands off the wheel), or cognitive (taking your mind off operating the vehicle).
According to a 2011 study performed by the United States Department of Labor and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), 57 percent of drivers admitted to being distracted by choice. The study ranked the most common driving distractions:
- Talking with passengers
- Adjusting vehicle climate/radio controls
- Eating, snacking, or drinking
- Using a cell phone to text or make a call
- Tending to child passengers
- Reading (including maps)
- Grooming
- Preparing for work
Texting requires visual, manual, and cognitive attention from drivers and is the most dangerous distraction. However, any of the activities on the list can divert a driver’s attention long enough to cause an accident.
If you or someone you know has been hurt by a distracted driver, meet with a Gwinnett County auto accident lawyer at Shane Smith Law.
For a free legal consultation, call 980-246-2656
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