The federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported that nine people are killed every day nationally due to distracted driver accidents. In Texas and across the country, distracted drivers pose a serious risk to themselves and other people on the roads. The particular types of distraction may vary as widely as the drivers behind the wheel, but the major ones include using cellphones, texting, using social media, setting GPS coordinates, and eating or drinking while driving.
Officials recommend putting cellphones away while driving as phone use increases the risk of an accident by three times. For those who absolutely have to use their phones, the recommendation is to use hands-free voice features. The risk is increased even further when young drivers are involved. The CDC reports that drivers under the age of 21 have the highest rate of accident fatalities related to distracted driving. Teens who text and drive are also less likely to wear seat belts and more likely to drink and drive.
There are a few types of distraction that may affect drivers. They include visual distractions, which take the driver’s eyes from the road; mental distractions, which take the driver’s thoughts away from the task of driving; and manual distractions, which take the driver’s hands off the wheel. Any of these distractions could remove the driver’s attention long enough to cause a car accident.
Individuals who are injured in motor vehicle accidents in Texas may be entitled to monetary compensation for lost wages, pain and suffering, medical expenses or other damages. An attorney who handles cases of car accidents might help by gathering evidence to prepare for trial, deposing experts, interviewing witnesses or attempting to negotiate a settlement with at-fault parties and their insurers. In cases that are not settled, an attorney may draft and file a complaint for relief in civil court.
