Common Distractions While Driving in Florida
It’s no secret that people can be easily distracted while driving. Driving Distractions killed 299 people in Florida in 2020, according to the Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles. Since 2015, distracted driving fatalities have increased by 36.53 percent. There are several things that drivers can do to avoid accidents, like keeping both hands on the wheel. Accidents can happen even when everyone has the best intentions, though. If you are ever involved in a car accident in Florida, here are some of the most common distractions that could have contributed to the crash.
Types of Distractions
More and more accidents are happening as a result of distractions, and there are three main types of distractions: manual, visual, and cognitive.
1. Manual Distraction
Drivers become distracted when they take their hands off the wheel to do something else. This can include texting, picking up an object from the floor, or eating. Car drivers who take their hands off the wheel for more than five seconds, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, double their risk of being involved in a car accident. For example, a driver from Naples who is texting and driving is six times more likely to get into an accident.
2. Visual Distraction
When drivers’ eyes are taken off the road, this is referred to as a visual distraction. This can include looking at objects outside of the car, reading, or using electronic devices. For example, a driver in Fort Myers focused so much on billboards that they rear-ended the car in front of them.
3. Cognitive Distraction
Cognitive Distractions are when drivers’ minds wander away from the task of driving. This includes thinking about things other than the road, talking on the phone, or singing along to music. Some cognitive distractions caused by stress, like anger or frustration, can be just as dangerous as texting while driving.
4. Mobile Phone Use
Distracted driving accidents caused by cell phone use have increased year after year since cell phones became widely available in the United States. In 2020, there were over 299 fatalities due to distracted driving. Although it is illegal to text and drive in Florida, talking on the phone is still legal. However, studies have shown that drivers are just as distracted when they are talking on the phone as they are when they are texting. The National Safety Council estimates that drivers talking on the phone are four times more likely to be in a car accident.
If you were involved in a car accident in Port Charlotte or anywhere in Florida, it’s important to remember that other drivers may even try to blame you for the crash. Don’t hesitate to contact an experienced personal injury lawyer who can help you build a case and get the compensation you deserve.
If a Distraction Has Lead to An Accident
Remember, if you’re ever in a car accident, it’s important to stay calm and collected. Many distractions can lead to accidents, so make sure to avoid them at all costs. If you’ve been in an accident and are looking for a personal injury attorney in Cape Coral or surrounding areas, please contact our experienced attorneys at Avard Law Office. We’ll work with you to get the compensation you deserve.
We have years of experience helping people get compensation after an accident. Give us a call today for a free consultation. You have nothing to lose!