It takes only a few seconds to text or place a call when driving, so it’s OK, right? Many young people seem to think so. You see them every day on the Merritt Parkway, Route 7 in Norwalk, Interstate 84 in Bridgeport and elsewhere in Fairfield County. Well, it takes only a few seconds to cause a serious car accident, too.
Consider that distracted drivers:
- Have reduced reaction times.
- Are less aware of traffic signs and lights, other motorists, pedestrians, and bicyclists.
- Are linked to one out of every six fatal accidents, 78 percent of all crashes and 65 percent of near-crashes.
- Increase their risk of crashing by up to 23 percent when using their mobile device.
The accident rate for distracted drivers is certainly higher than the amount reported simply because drivers, including young people, are unlikely to admit their risky behavior, which could cost them both legally (amounting to a guilty plea to any charges) and financially (insurance rates).
No Good Reasons for Distracted Driving
Young drivers think they can handle a few distractions. Factors behind their faulty reasoning:
- FOMO. They rely on their phones to stay in touch with family and friends and to engage on social media. They view these activities as worth the risk of distracted driving.
- The Illusion of Control. Drivers who are highly confident – especially males – appear more likely to text because they believe they can multitask without problems.
- Peer and Parent Influences. Research shows seeing others texting and driving leads young people to engage in unsafe driving habits.
- Hands-Free Technology. Despite the introduction of Bluetooth and other innovations, studies show any distraction has a negative impact on driver behavior.
One Call You Should Make
If you have been in a car accident caused by a distracted driver in Fairfield County, you could be badly injured and out of work for a lengthy recovery. You might be unable to pay your bills or to provide for your family. The legal case could be difficult if the young driver refuses to admit their careless behavior – or tries to blame you. Their insurance company may approach you with a financial settlement offer that is far below what you need, but tempting because you are desperate. All of this increases the financial, emotional, and mental burden on you and your family.
Car accident attorney Jeremy Vishno at Vishno Law Firm has been helping personal injury victims and their families achieve justice in Fairfield County and throughout Connecticut for 25 years. He will put his extensive experience to work for you in order to protect your rights and obtain fair financial compensation for your pain and suffering. Contact him today at his offices in either Fairfield or New Haven for a free case consultation.