How To Recognize A Distracted Driver
Distracted driving is a major problem on U.S. roads. And unlike what most people think, distracted driving does not only happen when a driver uses his or her phone. Distracted driving is doing any activity that takes a driver’s attention away from driving. For example, eating/drinking while driving is distracted driving. Grooming yourself while driving is also distracted driving. Even adjusting the radio while driving is a form of distracted driving. Unfortunately, distracted drivers are responsible for many severe injuries and deaths. The CDC estimates that each day, almost ten people are killed in accidents that are reported to involve a distracted driver. This article discusses how you can recognize a distracted driver and what you can do if you suffer injuries in an accident involving a distracted driver.
How Can You Recognize a Distracted Driver?
You need to know how to spot distracted drivers for your safety and that of your loved ones. The following are some signs that might indicate a driver is distracted;
Not Maintaining a Steady Speed
If a driver is speeding up or slowing down erratically, it is likely because he or she is distracted driving and cannot maintain a consistent speed. If a driver is speeding up or slowing down erratically, it could be a sign that he or she is focused on another activity and thus cannot focus on the road and speed limit.
Driving Too Slowly or Speeding
Some drivers ease up on the accelerator and drive much slower than the posted speed limit or traffic flow because they know they are distracted and are not paying attention to the road. Also, if a driver is driving much faster than the posted speed limit or traffic flow, it could be a sign that he or she is distracted.
Braking Suddenly and Frequently
This is one of the best ways to tell a driver is distracted. A driver who is focused on the task of driving will stop normally. A driver who is not focused on the road may need to slam on the brakes, for example, because they did not notice traffic slowing down.
Running Stop Signs or Red Lights
If a driver runs a red light or a stop sign, it could be a sign that they were focused on something else and could not see the sign or light turn red.
What To Do After You Are Injured in an Accident Involving a Distracted Driver
Each driver owes a duty of care to other road users. So every driver has a duty not to drive while distracted. After a distracted driver injures you, you may be entitled to recover compensation in a personal injury claim. Some of the damages you can recover in a New Jersey personal injury claim include medical expenses, lost wages, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life.
However, recovering the compensation you deserve on your own could be a challenge. After a distracted driver injures you, it is best that you retain a qualified personal injury attorney.
Contact Us for Legal Help
If a distracted driver hits and injures you, our skilled New Jersey personal injury lawyers at Citizen Soldier Law can help you fight for the compensation you deserve.
Source:
cdc.gov/transportationsafety/distracted_driving/index.html
