All motorists in Pennsylvania have probably done it at some point — distracted driving. It can take many forms, everything from eating a messy cheeseburger in the car to singing along to our favorite songs on the radio to changing the destination on the GPS, just to name a few.
Although there are numerous forms, all instances of distracted driving can be divided into just three main category types. These include the following:
- Visual — looking away from the roadway ahead
- Manual — removing one or more hands from the steering wheel
- Cognitive — letting one’s thoughts and focus drift away from the task of driving
No matter if it’s rubbernecking when passing a roadside accident, handing a tissue to a sneezing passenger in the backseat or contemplating a stressful work project, all can be potentially hazardous. Distracted driving isn’t just texting behind the wheel, either, which is illegal in Pennsylvania. It’s anything that takes your eyes, hands or attention away from the road.
Plus, as you’re no doubt aware, distracted driving dramatically increases the chances of a motor vehicle accident and, consequently, it takes a horrible toll on many lives each year. An estimated nine people die and over 1,000 are hurt in crashes involving distracted drivers every day in America.
Surely, nobody ever intends to cause a traffic accident by their distracted driving. Their judgment simply lapses for a moment, and they overestimate their multitasking abilities and underestimate the risks. They prioritize the distraction over getting to their destination safely, which endangers other motorists as well. The priority of us all should be to make driving as safe as possible for everyone on the road.
Legal help if your family suffers the worst
If you or a loved one has been injured or killed in a motor vehicle crash caused by a distracted driver, it’s vital that you protect your rights and seek compensation for your suffering and loss. Talk to an experienced and compassionate Brookville personal injury attorney who can help you understand your legal options and pursue as much financial compensation as possible under Pennsylvania law.