Compassionate Support After An Accident With A Distracted Driver

Distracted driving is a major cause of motor vehicle accidents. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) estimates that distracted driving causes over 3,000 deaths and 400,000 injuries yearly.

As personal injury attorneys at Wells and McElwee P.C., we have watched the number of distracted driving accidents increase and have had a front-row seat to the damage they have caused. Many different types of distractions can cause accidents. Some of the most common distractions include:

• Cellphone use: Talking on the phone, texting, and using social media while driving are all forms of cellphone use that can be dangerous.
• Eating: Eating while driving can take your attention away from the road and lead to an accident.
• Talking to passengers: Talking to passengers can be a distraction, especially if you’re trying to hold a conversation while also trying to drive.
• Changing the radio: Changing the radio station or adjusting the volume can take your attention away from the road.

Distracted driving can have serious consequences. You could be seriously injured or killed if you’re involved in an accident while distracted. You could also be held liable for the damages caused by the accident.

If you’re a parent, you can help your teen driver avoid distracted driving by setting a good example and talking to them about the dangers of distracted driving. You can also help them learn how to drive safely by teaching them the rules of the road and practicing with them in a safe environment.

Types Of Distractions

Distracted driving can take many forms. Some of the most common distractions include:

• Visual distractions: Anything that takes your eyes off the road can be a visual distraction. This includes looking at your phone, eating or talking to passengers.
• Cognitive distractions: Anything that takes your mind off driving can be a mental distraction. This includes talking on the phone, texting or listening to music.
• Manual distractions: Anything that takes your hands off the wheel can be a manual distraction. This includes eating, adjusting the radio or changing the temperature.

It may be impossible to eliminate all distractions. Still, understanding where distractions come from can be an important step to avoiding many distractions.

Risks For Teen Drivers

Teen drivers are particularly at risk for distracted driving accidents. This is because they are more likely to be distracted by cellphones, eating and talking to passengers. They are also more likely to be involved in accidents because they are still learning how to drive safely.

There are several things that parents can do to help their teen drivers avoid distracted driving. These include:

• Setting a good example: Parents should never drive distracted themselves. They should also talk to their teens about the dangers of distracted driving and how to avoid it.
• Talking to their teens about the rules of the road: Parents should ensure their teens know the rules and how to obey them. They should also talk to their teens about the importance of driving safely.
• Practicing with their teens: Parents should practice driving with their teens in a safe environment. This will help them learn how to drive safely and avoid distractions.

While teenagers may face many potential distractions while they are driving, you can help them develop good habits for avoiding distractions.

Get Support Today

If you’ve been in a distracted driving accident, you should seek medical care right away, even if you do not think you were injured. You should also talk to an experienced attorney who can help you with your claim and support you through the process.

At Wells and McElwee P.C., we understand the challenges that come after an accident with a distracted driver in northeast Georgia. For a free consultation, contact us online or call 706-510-2815 to make an appointment in our Athens office.