Distracted driving accidents are extremely common in the United States, but they’re responsible for thousands of deaths every year. If you or a family member have been hurt in a distracted driving accident, it’s important to understand what caused the collision and how you can get legal help after the crash.

Texting & Driving In Maryland

Texting and driving causes numerous collisions every year, giving it a notorious reputation. 1 in 4 car accidents are caused by texting behind the wheel and 78% of distracted drivers aren’t paying attention to the road because they’re texting. Every year, 330,000 accidents caused by distracted driving result in serious injury.

Eating While Driving

Eating and driving is a common activity that isn’t usually seen as dangerous. However, accidents are often caused by drivers who were eating behind the wheel and didn’t have both hands available to maintain control over the vehicle. Also, immediate responses to surprises like spills can cause you to lose control over the car.

Talking

Talking to passengers typically isn’t a dangerous activity, but it can be if you’re turning to face them. This causes you to take your eyes off the road and can potentially cause you to accidentally jerk the wheel.

Using the Mirror

Mirrors in a car are designed to help you see your surroundings, however, they’re often used for things like putting on makeup. In traffic, when the car is stopped, this usually isn’t an issue. But using the mirror for things like applying makeup or other beauty routines takes your eyes off the road for too long; it only takes a couple seconds for an accident to happen.

Changing the Radio

Typically, changing the radio while driving is safe. However, if you’re spending minutes flipping through radio stations while looking at the display, you’re likely more distracted than you should be while driving. To safely change the radio, with the stations one at a time and put your eyes on the road each time; don’t focus too long on the controls without checking your surroundings.

Should You Contact an Attorney if You Were Hurt in a Distracted Driving Accident?

If you or someone you love were hurt in a car accident caused by a distracted driver, it’s important that you have strong legal advocacy on your side. Reach out to the Avid Injury & Criminal Defense Law Firm to learn more about your eligibility for financial compensation after a collision. Call now at (240) 561-7433. Serving Bethesda and surrounding areas in Maryland.