Distracted driving resulted in nearly 3,500 fatalities in 2016 alone in the United States, and a recent AAA survey has found that 90% of drivers believe distracted driving is an increasing concern. According to the 2017 Traffic Safety Index survey, 88% of drivers say they fear distracted drivers more than drunk or aggressive drivers. Furthermore, research conducted by the AAA shows that distractions cause more than half of all car accidents each year.
While using a cell phone has often been described as the most dangerous form of distracted driving, recent studies have found that there is riskier driving behavior. Talking to passengers causes more than half of all distracted driving accidents, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
Statistics Regarding Distracted Driving in the U.S.
The federal data shows that having conversations with passengers causes 57% of all distracted driving accidents in the United States annually. Using a cell phone only causes 12% of distracted auto accidents. Actions of passengers other than talking, such as fighting in the backseat or dancing in the car, contribute to another 7% of distracted driving crashes annually. Eating, fiddling with A/C or radio controls, adjusting the seat or mirrors, and doing other tasks cause an additional 23% of all distracted driving accidents. While using a cell phone definitely increases the risk of an accident, getting lost in a conversation or having a heated argument could also cause a crash. Drivers must avoid all types of distractions while behind the wheel.
If you have been injured by a distracted driver, contact Palmisano & Goodman, P.A.today to discuss your case. Our Woodbridge attorneys have more than 100+ combined years of experience and will walk you through the legal process.