Distracted Driving: Number One Cause of Car Accidents

Over the decades, all sorts of forms of negligence have contributed to car accidents, with drunk driving historically being the top concern. However, in recent years, distracted driving has become the leading cause of car accidents in the USA. As technology becomes more integrated into our lives, the temptation to multitask while driving has skyrocketed, making distracted driving a pressing issue that demands attention and action.

The Rise of Distracted Driving

In the last decade or so, the number of accidents caused by distracted driving has risen alarmingly. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) statistics reveal that distracted driving is responsible for the majority portion of car accidents; some safety groups even estimate that at least half of all crashes involve at least one driver who was not paying full attention to the road. This unfortunate trend can be attributed to the rapid advancement of technology, particularly smartphones, which have become so commonplace that even many small children carry one. Unsafe drivers may find themselves checking text messages, emails, or social media notifications while behind the wheel, underestimating the severe danger caused by smartphone distractions.

Common Types of Driver Distractions

Driver distractions can take several forms (all of which are possible through smartphone use), including:

1. Visual distractions: Visual distractions occur when drivers take their eyes off the road, such as when looking at a GPS, reading a text message, or glancing at a social media video.
2. Manual distractions: Manual distractions involve taking hands off the steering wheel. Common examples include eating, adjusting the radio, reaching for an object in the car, or holding a smartphone.
3. Cognitive distractions: Cognitive distractions happen when a driver's mind wanders away from the task of driving. Past research by the National Safety Council (NSC) has found that cognitive distractions linger for at least 30 seconds after the source of the distraction is no longer present. For example, someone who looks at a text message while driving will still be thinking about it for at least 30 seconds after putting down the smartphone.
4. Auditory distractions: Sounds that divert a driver's attention are considered auditory distractions, which can include loud music or phone notifications. Using a smartphone to talk to someone “hands-free” still causes driver distraction, including auditory distraction.
5. Social distractions: Social interactions in the car, such as talking to passengers or attending to children, can divert a driver's attention from the road. While it may seem harmless, social distractions can lead to lapses in focus and judgment, increasing the risk of accidents, so drivers should insist on not talking with passengers while operating the vehicle.

How Common is Distracted Driving in Texas?

According to the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT), distracted drivers in Texas are the cause of:

• About 20% of all traffic accidents in the state
• More than 350 traffic fatalities each year on average
• More than 2,000 serious injuries each year on average

Based on TxDOT data, distracted drivers are the second most common cause of motor vehicle accidents in the state. A fact sheet recently published by the Texas Department of Insurance (TDI) – click here to load it in PDF form – also revealed that about 10% of all distracted driving deaths that occur in the U.S. each year happen in Texas. It also determined that distracted drivers in Texas are the cause of roughly 9% of all traffic deaths in the state each year.

Tips to Avoid Distracted Driving

Everyone needs to do their part to stop distracted driving across America. The easiest way to contribute is to make sure you never drive while distracted.

To stop yourself from driving while distracted, you can:

• Set devices to 'do not disturb' mode: This simple step can prevent distractions from notifications and calls, allowing you to focus solely on the road.
• Prepare in advance: Ensure everything is ready before starting the engine, including setting the GPS, adjusting mirrors, and securing any loose items in the car.
• Lead by example: Demonstrating good driving habits encourages passengers and other drivers to do the same, fostering a culture of safety on the road.

If you live in Texas and were hit by a distracted driver, let Hilliard Law know right away. Our attorneys have a long history of securing impressive wins for injured motorists throughout the state, including several multimillion-dollar case results in recent years. Call (361) 882-1612 to see if we can help you, starting with a free case consultation.