Phone use and a range of other things that take a driver’s attention are some of the most common reasons that car accidents occur. Since the introduction of cell phones and their widespread use, drivers have been engaging in unnecessarily dangerous activities while they should solely focus on safely operating their vehicles. Unfortunately, drivers often do not take that responsibility seriously, and they may believe that they are capable of safely multitasking while behind the wheel.
Distracted driving is one of the leading safety concerns for Texas drivers and across the country. Thousands of people lose their lives each year due to this preventable and unnecessary type of reckless driving. If you are the victim of an accident caused by a distracted driver, you may benefit from understanding the specific legal options available to you. This could include seeking justice and compensation through a civil claim.
A look at a serious safety concern
Each year, different groups release data that they have gathered about the issue of distracted driving. They include insight regarding different types of distraction, how drivers engage with their phones and other factors that could impact the overall number of injuries and fatalities. As you consider this serious issue, the following facts may be helpful to you:
- Visual distraction can happen at any time, even without a phone in hand.
- Manual distraction also includes adjusting the radio, holding a coffee or putting on makeup.
- Data suggests that approximately nine people die in distraction-related accidents in the United States every day.
- Distracted driving also leads to hundreds of cyclist and pedestrian deaths each year.
- For every hour of driving, drivers spend an average of just under two minutes on their phones.
- Statistics indicate that most distracted driving takes place between the hours of 6 and 11 p.m.
There is no excuse for distracted driving regardless of the source or reason for it. Each driver is responsible for the choices he or she makes behind the wheel, particularly those that cause harm to others.
What are your options?
If you believe that your injuries are the result of a distracted and reckless driver, there are options available to you. Through the civil justice system, you may be able to seek compensation, pursue justice and hold the responsible parties accountable. After an accident, it may be helpful to seek an assessment of your case in order to understand how to move forward.