As the weather warms up in April, more people hit the road. Whether this means heading south for spring break or partaking in local outdoor activities, more people are on the go and there is more highway traffic. April isn’t just a seasonal turning point, though. The National Safety Council has dubbed it “Distracted Driving Awareness Month.”
Most people are already aware that drivers are frequently on their phones. What they may not be aware of is that, according to software developer TrueMotion, 92 percent of drivers use their phone while driving. Seventy-one percent text while driving. These numbers are frightening. When a driver is distracted by their phone, they aren’t fully tuned to the road in front of them.
A Sobering Look At Statistics
As automotive technology develops, people expect car accident fatalities to decrease. The opposite has been true in recent years, with a six percent increase since 2015. Nearly 40,000 people died on American roads last year and another 4.5 million were injured. While there are many causes of car accidents, the staggering amount of drivers using their phones in recent years points directly to distracted driving.
For Distracted Driving Awareness Month, the NSC is promoting awareness and also asking drivers to pledge to drive distraction free. This doesn’t just relate to texting, internet and phone call distractions. Checking a GPS device, eating a quick lunch on the go or rubbernecking at something on the side of the road are also common causes of distracted driving.
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Prevention And Liability
Distracted driving accidents are preventable. All a driver needs to do is pay attention to the road. Since this is often easier said than done, the NSC is raising additional awareness for the problem.
Over 40,000 people lost their lives on the road last year. When another driver’s negligence puts you at risk, they are liable for their actions. Anyone who has been in a car or truck accident with a distracted driver should consult with an attorney to review your case and to help you get the compensation you deserve to help you recover and get back on track.
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