Driving a motor vehicle demands a driver’s full attention, and distracted driving can cause serious car accidents. In fact, a recent study by the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA) indicates that distracted driving-related fatalities are on the rise, increasing nearly ten percent from 2018 to 2019. The GHSA outlines the increase in distracted driving and introduces some suggested actions for states to undertake to reverse the trend. Informing the public about the dangers, enacting laws, and having legal consequences will help dissuade motorists from engaging in dangerous distracted driving.
The report says that 3,142 Americans were killed in distracted driving accidents in 2019. This represents an increase from the 2,841 distracted driving fatalities recorded in 2018. However, these figures only represent the deaths caused in accidents where distracted driving was clearly a factor. Since many driver distractions never come to light in the wake of an accident, researchers believe these numbers are an underrepresentation of the true scale of the problem.
Texting and Driving
Researchers believe the use of mobile phones is the root of the increase in distracted driving deaths. While other types of distraction like adjusting the radio, eating, or reading are problems, texting while driving seems to be at the top of the list of driving distraction dangers. The study indicates that crash rates increase by 8.3 percent for every text sent per hour of driving. The risk of a severe crash increases by 6.5 percent for every message sent per driving hour.
Drivers involved in the study sent an average of 1.6 texts per hour while driving. Yet, age distinctions brought up interesting evidence that supported the notion that younger drivers are much more likely to text while driving. According to the study, drivers between 16 years old and 19 years old sent an average of 2.9 texts per hour of driving, while drivers between 20 years old and 29 years old sent 2.6 texts per driving hour on average.
How can Distracted Driving be Prevented?
Despite distracted driving laws that have been enacted in every state, GHSA researchers suggests that more can be done. Suggestions include stricter laws in areas where the laws are lax and stronger enforcement across the board. Recommendations also include public outreach efforts to inform drivers about the dangers of distracted driving and to discourage them from engaging in the dangerous conduct while driving. The study concluded that some of the most successful efforts involved well-defined laws, implementation of penalties and fines, high-visibility enforcement and law enforcement outreach, and partnership efforts in the community. A victim injured in a distracted driving car accident is encouraged to speak to a lawyer.
Washington DC Car Accident Lawyers at the Law Offices of Duane O. King Help Injured Clients Recover Damages After Distracted Driving Collisions
Distracted driving is increasing, and motorists should do what they can to prevent accidents from happening. If you were injured in an accident that was caused by a distracted driver, you should be able to collect damages to pay for your medical bills and lost wages related to your accident. A Washington DC car accident lawyer at the Law Offices of Duane O. King can support your claim and recover the compensation you deserve. Call us at 202-331-1963 or contact us online for a free consultation. Located in Washington, D.C., we serve clients throughout Prince George’s County, including Laurel, Beltsville, Adelphi, College Park, Greenbelt, Mitchellville, Woodmore, Greater Upper Marlboro, Springdale, Largo, Bowie, Capitol Heights, District Heights, Forestville, Suitland, Seat Pleasant, Clinton, Oxon Hill, Temple Hills, and Fort Washington.
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