The Dangers of Distracted Driving

April is Distracted Driving Awareness Month, and just a casual glance around any major roadway reveals a troubling number of drivers with their eyes on their phones instead of the road ahead. This is a dangerous habit that leads to wrecks resulting in severe injuries and tragic fatalities. Attorney David Greene recently was invited onto Studio 10 to share why this is such a big problem from his vantage point as a personal injury lawyer.  

Teens at Risk

Navigating Conversations about Distracted Driving: Teen drivers are particularly vulnerable to the allure of distractions. With still-developing driving habits, teenagers are even more prone to making driving errors while texting or engaging in other cell phone usage. It’s imperative for parents and guardians to foster open communication, set a positive example, and consider leveraging technological features such as Do Not Disturb mode or Driving Mode to limit phone use among young drivers.

Hands-Free Doesn’t Mean Risk-Free

While hands-free options may seem like a safer alternative, they can still compromise a driver’s focus. Engaging in complex or emotionally charged conversations, even through hands-free devices, diverts attention away from the road and increases the risk of accidents.

Navigating Touchscreen Distractions

The sleek touchscreens found in modern cars offer convenience but also pose a significant distraction. Attempting to navigate these interfaces while driving can be hazardous, so it’s best to preset navigation, music, and other preferences before embarking on your journey to minimize distractions.

Stay Focused, Stay Safe

Preventing car wrecks resulting from distracted driving begins with the individual commitment to keep our attention on the road. Limiting phone usage, preprogramming vehicle features, and making driving the primary focus can significantly reduce the risk of accidents. Safeguarding our roads should be a collective priority.

Use the Buddy System

If you have a passenger who is able, let them update the GPS, tune the radio or answer phone calls. This allows you to keep your eyes on the road.

What to Do After a Distracted Driving Wreck

In the event of a car accident, prioritizing your health is paramount. Seek immediate medical attention, and then follow these crucial steps:

• Call 911: Regardless of the perceived severity of the accident, involving emergency services ensures that a police report is generated and the incident is documented.
• Contact an Attorney: A knowledgeable and experienced personal injury attorney, like the team at Greene & Phillips Personal Injury Lawyers, can help you receive the compensation you deserve for medical bills, lost wages, and other expenses related to your injury. 

Get Support from Greene & Phillips

If you’ve been involved in an accident where distracted driving was a factor, know that the Greene & Phillips team is here to support you. Reach out to us by text or call us 24/7 at (251) 300-2000, fill our a contact form, or come to our offices in Mobile or Birmingham any time for expert legal assistance–no appointment needed!

Together, Let’s Make Our Roads Safer

By raising awareness and taking proactive measures, we can work together to prevent distracted driving accidents, fostering safer roads and highways for all.