The NHTSA reported over 3,142 deaths related to distracted driving in 2020. It takes a simple distraction for a driver to crash a vehicle, causing harm to other road users and property. There are several reasons a driver can get distracted on the road.
Enacting laws and guidelines that promote safety on the roads can help. Texas law prohibits phone use in the school zone to prevent distracted driving accidents. With camera installations, lawyers have an easy time proving liability in a distracted driving case.
In case you are wondering, here are the top factors that contribute to distracted driving in Texas.
Mobile Devices
Most people are addicted to their screens. The younger generation of drivers is growing daily, and it is a growing concern. That’s why most states, like Texas, continue to enact laws to prevent phone usage while driving.
Making phone calls while behind the wheel in a moving vehicle is also another reason for accidents. Road users must avoid holding their phones while on the road. That can help them avoid accidents.
Other people get busy checking social media and emails. One post can obstruct your thinking and derail your line of thought. In poor judgment, you can harm other passengers. Replying to comments or reading messages allows enough time to take your focus off the road.
Other passengers
Other passengers can be a distraction. They could be arguing or even being loud and chatty. Sometimes people get so engrossed in their conversations that they lose grip of the wheel. Other passengers may be playing and engaging in rowdy behavior.
Couples also distract each other on the road. Some people hold hands or get playful. Avoid excessive indulgence while on the road.
Eating and Drinking
Sometimes there is no time to sit and eat. Some drivers eat on the go to keep up with their busy schedules. In the morning, most people pick up their coffee on their way to work. Eating and drinking in the car is not a new part of the culture.
Whether opening a can of sauce or mixing the salad, you can lose grip of the steering wheel. Spills can also leave behind serious messes. They are enough to send your mind reeling and make you lose focus.
One or both hands are on your food when drinking and eating in the car. That leaves a lot of room to make mistakes while driving.
Children
Children can sometimes make you lose focus on the road. Your children always play and seek attention around you. Without your intervention, tantrums kick in, and there are emotions everywhere.
It is important to ensure you follow child safety rules when driving with your children. The worst they can do is throw things and yell at you.
A ride with your kids is not always easy. Sometimes they will have bad ideas that can endanger them. Ensure they are always strapped on and the doors are well-locked before you start the journey. It helps when they are settled.
Electronic gadgets
Other electronic gadgets are also a source of distraction. There are always cool features that you think might help make the ride better. However, if dysfunctional, you may end up hurting others.
Keep things like laptops and built-in infotainment systems at bay to increase concentration. Loud music can make you forget that you are cruising at high speeds. Also, most people sing along and forget to check the road ahead.
Final Word
Distracted driving claims many lives on the road. If you have been a victim, you deserve proper compensation. Drivers should avoid all the factors contributing to distracted driving and enhance road safety.
