Are Smartphones to Blame for Distracted Driving in Georgia?

Distracted driving in Georgia is becoming very common. Distracted driving usually occurs either out of a habit or the driver does not understand how dangerous it could get if you take your eyes off from the road. It can lead to serious damages including severe injuries and you may sustain life-long ones as well. The severity of your injuries depends upon the intensity of the collision. Diverting your focus from the road can become a peril for you and the people around you.

Using a smartphone while driving is one of the major causes of distractions. In 2019, around 3,142 people died due to distracted driving. This means distracted driving claims the life of approximately 9 people each day. Using a smartphone may result in multiple distractions such as texting while driving, talking on the phone, browsing the internet, taking photos, or making videos. Smartphones can cause huge distractions but they are not the only cause of distraction while driving.

There are traffic laws that prohibit the use of a smartphone while driving and these laws have saved several lives so far. Moreover, distracted driving accidents on highways are more dangerous due to high speed. If a driver is texting and driving above 65 miles an hour, then the driver might face serious consequences. Looking away from the road to use a smartphone even for a second can cause your vehicle to swerve into another lane and collide with another vehicle or multiple vehicles.

The Behavior & Impact of Distracted Driving in Georgia:

Distracted driving in Georgia can also be caused if the driver experiences other distractions. These can include eating while driving, grooming and getting ready, turning around to talk to a passenger, or diverting attention to automated car systems.

Imagine you are driving and suddenly you take your hands off your steering. This is a manual distraction that the majority of people are not aware of. It could happen because either you are smoking, looking for something inside your car, texting, or adjusting systems.

Similarly, visual distractions cause a driver to look away from the road even when the hands are on the steering. You may be looking at another passenger, enjoying the scenery outside, or reading a text on your smartphone. You may also look to a specific place outside which would divert your attention from the road.

Another distracted driving behavior occurs when you are looking at the road and your hands are on the steering, but your mind and attention are diverted. This is a cognitive distraction. Even though you are looking at the road but you are not focusing on the drive. You may be in deep thought or you may be stressed about something. Your entire focus and energy shift to the thought. This can negatively impact your reaction time. It can also impact your hearing ability; you may ignore the horn sounds or pedestrians crossing the road. This could be extremely risky.

Accidents Due to Distracted Driving:

The victims of distracted driving may require skilled car accident attorneys to represent their case and obtain compensation for physical injuries, emotional distress, and financial damages. You may require immediate medical care post-accident.

Even if you think you are stable, you should get a complete medical checkup to rule out complications such as internal bleeding, among many others. When someone mentions distracted driving behavior, people only think about the use of a smartphone. Despite it being a cause of creating distractions for the driver, it is not necessarily the only cause.

How Can You Stop Distracted Driving; Notes from Georgia’s Car Accident Lawyers:

It is essential to educate young drivers regarding the consequences and dangers of using smartphones while driving. Parents can teach new license holders to turn off their smartphones while turning on the engine of the vehicle. Many programs and campaigns are designed by the government to educate people regarding distracted driving and change their behavior.

This can help reduce the number of accidents that occur, overall. It is highly significant to abide by traffic rules and keep your entire focus on the road to prevent such incidents. You may risk your life along with your loved ones if you use a smartphone while driving.

Have You Been Injured by a Distracted Driver? Get in Touch with Our Georgia Accident Attorneys:

You are eligible to receive compensation if you have suffered serious injuries due to distracted driving in Georgia. If you or your loved ones have been injured in a car accident, immediately consult our car accident attorneys. Years of experience allow our Georgia accident lawyers to better understand your case and attain the compensation you deserve. We may not be able to protect you from an accident but we ensure that your rights are protected.

View these other frequently asked questions pages:

How Much Do You Get for Pain and Suffering in A Car Accident in Fayetteville, GA?

 

Can You Receive Compensation for Anxiety After A Car Accident In Fayetteville, GA?

 

What Can I Expect from My Free Initial Consultation with a Car Accident Lawyer in Fayetteville?