Know the signs of distracted driving

On Behalf of | Jun 3, 2017 | Car Accidents |

You can do everything in your power to keep yourself, your passengers and all others in your vicinity as safe as possible when you get behind the wheel to drive. And sometimes you can prevent another person’s poor choices on the road. For instance, if your friend has had too much too drink, you may be able to convince him or her to hand over the keys.

If an intoxicated person is someone you don’t know who just happens to drive near you, however, that’s an entirely different situation. Drunk driving takes many innocent lives every year. But, DUI isn’t the only form of driving negligence or distraction. Knowing what to look for in drivers may help you prevent disaster.

Common types of driving distractions

Following is a list of frequently reported types of distractions that place motorists (and pedestrians) at risk:

  • Eating food while driving or drinking behind the wheel
  • Texting, talking on cell phones or using hand-held electronic devices in another way
  • Focusing on off-road scenery, such as billboards or broken-down vehicles
  • Daydreaming
  • Interacting with other people in your car

There are certainly many other types of situations that could be considered distracted driving. Once you know what the most common types of distractions on the road are, you can then learn how to recognize drivers exhibiting such behaviors.

Signs of distracted driving

  • Driver is looking down at a cell phone
  • Vehicle is drifting
  • Erratic braking
  • Speed that doesn’t coincide with current traffic flow

If you witness any of these things, or something else causes you concern while driving, it’s typically best to try to find a safe place to pull over. If you’re able, you can call the appropriate authorities to report the behavior. Accidents can occur in the blink of an eye and devastate families.

If you suffer injury due to the negligence of another motorist, you may wish to file a personal injury claim in civil court.

An experienced personal injury attorney can clarify state laws regarding motor vehicle collisions and can also make recommendations regarding how best to go about seeking maximum compensation for damages.

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attorneys Brad Culpepper and Brett J. Kurland