Recognizing the risks of distracted driving

Many people from Rockville, Maryland, the surrounding area and throughout the United States are aware of the potential dangers of distracted driving, but many are not necessarily aware of just how dangerous it can be. In fact, looking at recent statistics should come as a dire warning for everyone out on the roads.

According to statistics from the United States Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, there were nearly 400,000 injuries related to distracted driving and nearly 3,500 deaths in 2015 alone.

The causes of distracted driving accidents vary, but commonly are attributed to drinking or eating while driving, talking to others while driving, adjusting the radio and playing with one’s smartphone or tablet while driving. While driving 55 miles per hour, a car will travel the length of a football field within five seconds. That is well within the time it takes one to check a text or email from their phone.

Although teenagers have been tied to more fatal car accidents than any other age group, Americans of all ages have been guilty of distracted driving. Considering the serious consequences that could occur, it is still unfortunate that so many people still feel the need to take their focus away from driving while behind the wheel. Distracted driving can affect anyone, not just the guilty party, but also innocent others sharing the road including fellow car drivers, motorcyclists and even pedestrians who are near the road. Distracted drivers who cause accidents may also be held liable and may be forced to pay victims for damages and injuries as a result of an accident.