People who think “it will never happen to me” are wrong. We see people multitasking on the road all the time, and they very likely all assume that they’re safe. No, says Professor David Sanbonmatsu, senior author of a University of Utah study, “Frequent Multitaskers Are Bad at It.”
“What is alarming is that people who talk on cell phones while driving tend to be the people least able to multitask well,” said Sanbonmatsu in the report. “Our data suggests the people talking on cell phones while driving are people who probably shouldn’t.”
The numbers prove it can happen to you, but help is on the way
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports distracted driving caused 3,450 fatalities in 2016, and about 391,000 injuries in 2015. Contributing to the mayhem were about 481,000 drivers who use their cell phones during daylight hours.
One of the leading voices trying to change these trends is the Road to Zero Coalition. Among other issues, the 850-member coalition is addressing the challenges of distracted driving, including the promotion of improved driving strategies, policy changes, design, technology and education.
When the worst happens, contact an attorney
No matter how careful you drive, you have no control over the person behind the wheel of another vehicle. They may be talking on their phone or scrolling through social media, posing a threat to your safety.
If you’ve been in an auto accident caused by a distracted driver, you are overwhelmed. You are trying to pay bills and provide for your family while out of work. The other driver will not admit they were at fault, instead blaming you for the accident. An insurance company is pressuring you into accepting a financial settlement that is nowhere near what you need or deserve.
Protect your interests – and your livelihood – by contacting auto accident attorney Gene S. Hagood. He has more than 15 years of experience handling cases just like yours in Houston, Galveston and throughout the state of Texas. From investigating your accident to building your legal case, Hagood will cut through the confusion to aggressively protect your rights. Schedule a free case evaluation today.