How often do you notice the car in front of you drifting back and forth in its lane, only to realize the driver is looking down at their phone?
Or maybe you are sitting at a red light, it turns green, and the driver in front of you never moves because they are texting.
We see it every day.
For many people, cellphone use while driving has become a terrible habit. Unfortunately, distracted driving accidents are incredibly common and often completely preventable. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, distracted driving contributes to thousands of deaths every year across the United States.
In my own practice, I would estimate that a large percentage of our car accident cases involve a driver who was focused on something other than the road when the crash occurred. Whether it is texting, looking at GPS directions, scrolling social media, or simply not paying attention, it only takes a few seconds for a serious accident to happen.
One of the simplest ways to reduce distractions while driving is to silence your phone or place it on “Do Not Disturb” mode before you leave.
Text messages, notifications, and social media alerts can wait until you reach your destination safely. There are even apps designed to help reduce cellphone use while driving and encourage safer habits behind the wheel.
If you need your phone for directions or an important call, consider using hands-free features whenever possible.
Most newer vehicles can connect directly to your phone through Bluetooth, allowing drivers to keep their hands on the wheel and their eyes on the road.
Children notice more than we think.
Talking to your kids about distracted driving and setting a good example can go a long way toward building safer habits for the next generation of drivers. Encourage them to help identify distractions and talk about why staying focused while driving matters.
Sometimes the best reminder to put the phone down comes from the back seat.
Distracted driving accidents happen every day across the Northshore and throughout Louisiana. The good news is that many of these crashes are preventable if drivers make a conscious effort to stay focused behind the wheel.
If you or a loved one has been injured by a distracted driver in Covington, Mandeville, Slidell, Hammond, or anywhere in the New Orleans metro area, contact Flattmann Law today for a free and confidential consultation.
Call (985) 590-6182 today.
When you ask for Grady, you get Grady. At Flattmann Law, we make sure that your consultations and cases are not assigned to a junior associate. Grady will personally be on the phone with you or meet you in person to discuss your individual situation. We will represent you not only as your attorney, but also as your neighbor.
Our legal library is full of articles on a variety of topics related to personal injury claims in Louisiana. Learn about how accidents happen, what to do when you are a victim, and how an attorney can help you fight for the compensation you may deserve.
