Encountering a distracted driver is one of the most frequent causes of a car accident in Louisiana and across the nation. This is an issue that is commonly discussed and research with lawmakers trying to formulate way to discourage the practice. Polls are taken to determine whether distracted driving is a matter of ignorance or it is something that people do despite understanding the risks involved. One recent poll indicates that an overwhelming majority of people know how dangerous distracted driving is.
A poll of more than 2,000 adults in the United States found that 92 percent believe that distracted driving is the most common factor in car crashes. The poll, commissioned by Property Casualty Insurers, shows that people know how much jeopardy they are placing themselves and others by texting and driving and taking part in other distracting behaviors, but continue to do it.
A greater number of elderly people are involved in fatal crashes and it was not generally viewed as due to distractions. But there has been evidence that people 65 and older are also allowing themselves to get caught up in texting and using their smartphones while driving. This information comes from a survey by AAA. Sixty percent of drivers in that age range admitted to using their phones while behind the wheel. They texted and made and received calls. More than 25 percent stated they did so while there was a minor in the vehicle with them.
Anyone who is out on the road as a driver, bicyclist or pedestrian will inevitably spot a person behind the wheel of a car who is looking down and not at the road. People are so attached to their devices that they believe they can multitask and drive safely simultaneous to doing other things on those devices. This is sadly untrue. With any car accident, the first thought that is considered in its aftermath is that someone was distracted. Because there can be severe injuries, lost wages, hospitalizations, surgeries, rehabilitation and the possibility of long-term damage and death, those who were injured or suffered the loss of a loved one in a car accident must consider the possibility that it was due to a distracted driver. A legal professional experienced in car accidents can help with the investigation and moving forward with a legal filing to receive compensation.
Source: thedrive.com, “Poll Finds Most Americans Believe Distracted Driving Top Reason for Crashes,” Kate Gibson, Dec. 28, 2017
