Shocking Statistics About Distracted Drivers
Distracted driving involves operating a motor vehicle without being entirely focused on the task at hand. Types of distractions can range from eating to holding pets to the most common, using cell phones. The Center of Disease Control and Prevention, as well as Distraction.gov, provide the following shocking data regarding being distracted behind the wheel.
Everyone is in danger.
Nearly one-fourth of all accidents are the cause of driving distracted. Distracted drivers cause almost nine deaths and over a thousand injuries every day.
Drivers are distracted every time they take their eyes off the road.
By sending a text, drivers can have their eyes off the road for almost five seconds. Driving at a speed of fifty-five miles per hour, drivers can travel a distance equal to the length of a football field and not see the road.
Every age group includes drivers guilty of distraction.
More than two-thirds of drivers between the 18 and 64 years of age confess to driving while talking on the phone. Almost one third admit they have texted or emailed messages while they were driving. One in five teenagers and one in ten parents say that they have communicated lengthy text discussions while driving.
Drivers don’t always do as they say.
Nearly all drivers understand the risk in texting while driving. But one in four drivers confesses to texting while driving.
Why is it happening?
More than four out of ten drivers say they are connecting with family, friends or work. Three out of ten say it’s a habit. Over one-fourth of drivers worry that they will miss an important message. More than a quarter think there are expectations to respond immediately.
Phones aren’t the only problem.
In almost two-thirds of the accidents caused by distracted drivers, the drivers were daydreaming. The possibility of being in a crash is increased nearly three-fold if the driver is reading, eating or putting on makeup. Many parents become distracted by their children. Studies show that during a short sixteen-minute ride, parents were distracted more than one-fifth of the time. Almost two-thirds of dog owners confess that their beloved pets have caused them to become distracted while driving.
Thankfully, laws are getting stricter.
Thirty-eight states now prohibit the use of cell phones by drivers between 18 and 21 years of age. Forty-five states banned texting by all drivers. First-time texting while driving tickets can cost you $100. If you’re in Alaska and you get caught be ready to fork out $10k.
Distracted driving is dangerous for everyone. Drive safe and keep those around you safe too. Stay focused whenever you are behind the wheel.
If you need information about distracted drivers in Frisco, TX, contact Reynolds & Reynolds law firm at 214-891-6606 today!
Reynolds & Reynolds Law Firm | Distracted Drivers Frisco TX | 214-891-6606
