In 2016 alone, distracted driving caused more than 3,450 deaths on U.S. roadways, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). A survey done by the Traffic Safety Index in 2017 showed that 88% of drivers fear distracted drivers more than drunk or aggressive drivers, and an AAA poll found that 90% of drivers believe distracted driving is a growing problem.
Although using a cell phone is thought by many to be the main cause of distracted driving, recent studies conducted by the NHTSA have found that chatting with passengers is even more dangerous. Having a conversation with passengers causes about 57% of all distracted driving accidents in the United States, while using a cell phone only causes around 12% of distracted auto crashes. Other actions of passengers, such as fighting in the backseat or dancing in the car, contribute to an additional 7% of distracted driving accidents.
While using a cell phone behind the wheel puts drivers at high risk of a crash, the research shows that it is important to consider other possible distractions as well. Drivers must take care to avoid distractions and stay focused on the road at all times. Having arguments or getting lost in conversations with passengers could lead to a crash. Adjusting radio or A/C controls, eating a sandwich, programming a GPS, and doing other actions also increases the risk of a serious accident. Drivers must keep their hands on the wheel, their eyes on the road, and their mind focused on driving at all times.
If you or a loved one have been injured or killed in a distracted driving accident, call Koenigsberg & Associates Law Offices today at (718) 690-3132. Our Brooklyn car accident attorneys are backed by a track record of success, and will walk you through the legal process as you seek justice.