Distracted Driving and Personal Safety: What You Need to Know

Oct 24,2019

*This post was originally published November 12, 2018 and has been updated with new information.

By now, we know well the dangers of distracted driving. The detrimental effects of being distracted behind the wheel are well documented, and smartphone use tops the list of distractions, causing more than one-quarter of all traffic accidents. In fact, new data released by the NHTSA has revealed that well over 660,000 drivers are using electronic devices on the road at any given time.

Teens and Texting

Unfortunately, many drivers learn too late that distracted driving can result in serious consequences. For teen drivers, a lack of general experience combined with smartphone use can result in catastrophic accidents. In fact, new data has revealed that teens involved in auto accidents were distracted by their phone at the time of the accident. Beyond the fact that cars and lives could be destroyed or severely damaged, yet another consequence of distracted driving is astronomical increases in auto insurance rates. According to recent studies, insurance rates for drivers who have been issued a distracted driving citation can rise well over 600%.

Mobile Workers and the Dangers of Distraction

Mobile workers take 49% more vehicle trips than do other types of employees. That extra time spent behind the wheel adds up to a significant amount of distracted driving. In fact, the Distracted Driving Report found that the average mobile worker drives 1,200 distracted miles a year.

“It’s certainly troubling to hear that so many professional drivers are distracted behind the wheel. Businesses that employ drivers must take the necessary steps to ensure their drivers are prioritizing safety,” said Attorney Walter Clark, founder of Walter Clark Legal Group.

Three Seconds Is All It Takes

Once a driver has become distracted, it only takes three seconds for a car crash to occur. This incredibly short window of time means that anyone can create an otherwise avoidable tragedy if they are using devices, reaching for objects, or engaging in other engaging activity while driving.

Take a look at these related articles:

Drowsy Driving Remains a Serious Threat

NTSB Issues Recommendations for Pedestrian Safety

Personal Injury Attorneys in Rancho Mirage

Our firm has been handling personal injury cases throughout the California Low Desert and High Desert communities for over 30 years. With a 95% success rate, the California personal injury attorneys at Walter Clark Legal Group will fight to hold those responsible for your loss accountable and win compensation to cover medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. If you have been injured in an auto accident and want to discuss your legal options, contact us today for a free consultation with an experienced personal injury lawyer. We have offices in Indio, Rancho Mirage, Victorville, and Yucca Valley and represent clients through the entire California Low Desert and High Desert communities.

DISCLAIMER: The Walter Clark Legal Group blog is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended as legal or medical advice. References to laws are based on general legal practices and vary by location. Information reported comes from secondary news sources. We do handle these types of cases, but whether or not the individuals and/or loved ones involved in these accidents choose to be represented by a law firm is a personal choice we respect. Should you find any of the information incorrect, we welcome you to contact us with corrections.