Distracted driving is the nation’s top cause of automobile accidents, which has led to countless people losing their lives and facing serious injuries. Most Americans fail to realize that it only takes one distraction to cause a devastating accident.
Arkansas was named one of the worst states in the country for distracted driving, which is why our Arkansas car accident attorneys at Niblock Law Firm have put together some important information on dangerous driving. Keep reading to learn how to stay safe and stay informed!
What is Distracted Driving?
Distracted driving is anything that takes your focus and attention off of driving. Driving distracted includes a wide range of conditions, however, according to the CDC, there are three types of distracted driving:
- Taking your hands off the wheel. This can include smoking, drinking, eating, or adjusting the radio station.
- Taking your eyes off the road. For example, applying makeup, looking for items, or texting.
- Taking your mind off driving. Meaning when you let your mind wander from the road, such as daydreaming or road rage.
According to Safe Wise, Arkansas made the list of the worst states for distracted driving. In the state of Arkansas, drivers are banned from texting while driving, however, using a handheld device is permitted unless you’re a bus driver or new driver.
According to Magnolia Reporter in 2021, Arkansas police are planning to target distracted driving. Although distracted driving continues, there are ways residents can help reduce this ongoing issue.
The Dangers of Distracted Driving
Driving while distracted can create hazardous road conditions for other drivers. It’s vital to be aware of the type of risk you place on others if you drive distracted. NHTSA and The Zebra have shared the following statistical data:
- Distracted driving caused 3,142 fatal crashes in 2019.
- 56.7% of drivers admit to eating or drinking while driving.
- Texting while driving is equivalent to driving the length of a football field with your eyes closed.
- In 2019, 8.5% of all drivers in fatal crashes were driving distracted.
- In 2020, 28.6% of all respondents admitted to texting and driving as their number one distracted driving behavior.
- It’s estimated that there are about 481,000 drivers on their phones while driving every day.
Now that you know the dangers of distracted driving, let’s talk about how to help keep you and your family safe while behind the wheel.
Ways to Help Keep Roadways Safe
In order to reduce car wrecks caused by distracted driving, you must prevent yourself from doing anything that will cause you to lose focus while driving. Listed below are ways you can implement safe driving practices and help diminish collisions:
- Keep your eyes on the road at all times.
- Do not text and drive.
- Never multitask. This can include adjusting the temperature or applying makeup.
- Do not drive while feeling drowsy.
- Avoid talking on the phone, unless you have to make an emergency call.
- Don’t play music loudly.
Implementing these suggestions can help improve the safety of the roadways and reduce auto accidents.
Compassionate. Dedicated. Experienced.
Our Arkansas car accident attorneys at Niblock Law Firm understand the legal difficulties an individual can face when handling insurance companies. With our law firm on your side, you won’t have to feel pressured to settle for less than what you deserve.
The severity of your injuries, property damage, and lost income all play an important role in determining the amount of compensation you may be able to receive. Our Niblock Law Firm team believes in fighting for your legal rights and we want to help you receive every penny you deserve. Call our law office today at (479) 521-5510, or fill out our free case evaluation form.