Distracted driving has always been a problem in Alabama. However, it has become even more of an issue since smartphones and social media have increased in popularity. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately nine people are killed, and more than 1,000 are injured in crashes caused by distractions in the United States each day.
As an Alabama driver, there are certain things you can do to help change this statistic for the better. If you’ve been injured or lost a loved one as a result of a driver engaging in distracting behaviors, contact Belt, Bruner, & Barnett P.C. to speak with an experienced Alabama distracted driving injury lawyers. We can help you determine liability and may be able to secure fair and full compensation on your behalf. Call us at (205) 933-1500 today, or reach out through the online form to schedule a free consultation of your case.
What is Distracted Driving?
Distracted driving occurs when you engage in another activity while driving. Although a common type of this behavior is texting or talking on your phone, there are a variety of other activities that can divert your attention away from the road and lead to a serious accident.
Such behaviors include talking to passengers, eating and drinking, brushing your hair, applying makeup, fumbling with your GPS or radio controls, or rubbernecking, which involves looking at road distractions like an accident scene or a monument.
If you engage in distracted driving, you may not be able to slow down or stop in time to avoid a crash. Think about it: if you’re emailing your boss back or responding to a comment on social media while driving, you may look up and notice the car in front of you came to a sudden stop. If you’re unable to stop in time, you might strike it.
Driving safely requires keeping your eyes on the road and hands on the steering wheel at all times. Engaging in any type of distraction prevents you from doing so, and can significantly increase your risk of getting into an accident.
How to Prevent Distracted Driving
There are a variety of ways you can prevent distracted driving, including:
- Keep your phone out of sight. If you can’t see your phone, you’ll be less likely to pick it up and start texting or making phone calls while you’re driving. Therefore, consider placing it in the backseat of your car or even your trunk.
- Leave early. People often engage in distracted driving because they’re running late and haven’t had the chance to eat, brush their hair, or respond to emails. If this sounds like you, get into the habit of leaving early and giving yourself plenty of time to get to your destination.
- Download an app – before you get behind the wheel. Apps have been developed to help drivers avoid distracted driving. Download an app that can block any incoming calls and texts and let your friends know you can’t talk because you’re driving.
Contact an Alabama Car Accident Lawyer for Help Today
It can be frustrating to sustain an injury in a crash that was caused by a distracted driver. That’s why we’re here to help. The Alabama personal injury lawyers at Belt, Bruner, & Barnett P.C. can ensure the driver is held accountable for their negligence and cause them to think twice before engaging in distracted behaviors again. We can also fight for you to recover compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and other damages. Schedule a free case consultation by contacting us at (205) 933-1500.
