Why is Distracted Driving so Dangerous?

By Grant Law Office on March 9, 2015

Under Georgia state law, all drivers are prohibited from texting from behind the wheel. Furthermore, young drivers under the age of 18 are banned from using any kind of wireless telecommunications device while driving. This is because cell phone use is one of the most popular forms of distracted driving, which is extremely dangerous.

It is crucial to remain focused on the roadway whenever your vehicle is in motion. An act as simple as turning to talk to a passenger can lead to a fatal crash. While cell phones contribute to a significant number of distracted driving accidents, it is not the only form of distraction. A driver is considered distracted whenever he or she is eating, applying makeup, reading a map, drinking, using a GPS navigation system or even changing a radio station.

The moment you take your eyes off the road, take your hands off the wheel or take your mind off driving, you are distracted. Visual, manual and cognitive distractions are dangerous individually, but they are particularly hazardous when combined. For example, whenever you send a text, your mind is focused on what you are going to type, your hands are on your phone and your eyes may dart from the roadway to your phone from time to time. This means that you are distracted visually, manually, and cognitively at the same time.

If you are traveling at a speed of 55 miles per hour, you can travel the length of a football field within seconds. Essentially, whenever you look at your phone for five seconds, you are driving 100 yards while blindfolded. If roadway or traffic conditions change during that time, you may be unable to avoid a collision.

Furthermore, drivers who do not pay attention on the road are considered negligent under the law. If you cause an accident while driving distracted, you can be held accountable for the damages and injuries you cause. If a distracted driver injures you, you can pursue compensation for losses such as medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering and other related damages. An experienced Atlanta car accident attorney can help you better understand your legal rights and options.