Because cell phones are always with us, if we say “distracted driving,” chances are that texting and talking on the phone are the first things you think about. However, any sort of "multi-tasking" can distract you from the task at hand: DRIVING.

It only takes a few seconds of taking your eyes off the road to lead to catastrophic, life-changing results for you, other drivers, passengers, pedestrians, and cyclists. 

In 2016, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) noted that distracted driving claimed the lives of 3,450 individuals. In addition:

• 391,000 were injured in motor vehicle crashes involving distracted drivers in 2015.
• During daylight hours, approximately 481,000 drivers are using cell phones while driving. 
• Teens were the largest age group reported as distracted at the time of fatal crashes.

These shocking statistics mean chances are high that you or someone you know has felt the impact of distracted driving.

You can’t always avoid the consequences of someone else’s bad behavior. However, you as an alert driver can watch out for the warning signs of distracted driving that could end in collision and injury.

• Veering to the sides of the lane

If a vehicle is near you and veers from one side to the middle and back, this is a good sign that the driver is either drunk or distracted, and is definitely a danger on the road. Put a safe distance between you and this vehicle. If the veering is so severe that a crash seems imminent, consider pulling off the road to call the local police with a description and license plate number. It might save the life of that driver and anyone in their path. 

• Erratic breaking

A distracted driver will often brake in an unusual and erratic fashion. This happens because he/she detects lights or movements in the surroundings and reacts before fully understanding what they see. This is another waving red flag for you to keep your distance. 

• Taking too long at red lights

It’s not hard to spot someone using the delay at a red light to check emails, texts, and calls; tend to some need from kids in the backseat; tune the radio; check traffic on their maps app... because they don’t react naturally at a red light turning green. This is another warning sign for someone who does not have their full attention on the 2,000-pound hunk of steel they are operating. Give that car space, if you can. 

• Wearing earbuds or Bluetooth device

Motorists wearing earbuds or Bluetooth devices have divided attention. Whether they’re talking on the phone or listening to music, a podcast, or audiobook, that additional task is a distraction. Studies conflict as to whether or not listening to audiobooks help or hurt your awareness, but a number of states have outlawed the use of both earbuds while driving. This is a strong hint that there is some evidence to correlate wearing dual earbuds and a negative effect on driving. Don’t do it, and watch out for other drivers who do.   

If you or someone you love has been injured in a car accident that was caused by a distracted driver in Alabama, then you need to employ the services of an experienced car accident attorney as soon as you possibly can. Here at the Birmingham law firm of Snable Stevenson & Silva L.L.C., we can help you recover compensation for the lost wages, medical bills, and pain and suffering that you are entitled to under the law. Contact us for a free consultation with an attorney today.