Despite laws prohibiting Hoosiers from using their phones while driving, distracted driving accidents related to cell phone use are all too common in Indiana. Texting, talking, and using social media on your phone are all activities that become downright dangerous when you’re in the driver’s seat.
Of course, there are other forms of distracted driving that can be just as hazardous. Eating, applying makeup, adjusting the GPS, and changing the music are also common causes of distracted driving. Being distracted for even a couple of seconds can mean the difference between hitting the brakes to avoid a crash and rear ending the car in front of you.
More than 3,000 Americans were killed due to distracted driving in 2020, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Association (NHTSA). April is national Distracted Driving Awareness Month, dedicated to educating drivers to help prevent distractions.
Don’t Drive While Distracted
If you need to send a text or check directions, pull over and park in a safe location before using your phone. Better yet, if you have a passenger who can reply to messages or look up directions, hand over your phone!
Don’t scroll through apps while driving. If you’re struggling to stop looking your phone, put it in your vehicle’s trunk or glove box. Put your phone on “do not disturb” mode or silence incoming notifications to help minimize disruptions while you’re in the car.
The only way to drive safely is to keep your full attention on driving. You may feel like you can multitask without issue, but just taking your eyes off the road to send or read a text takes 5 seconds. If you’re going 55 mph, that’s like driving the length of a football field with your eyes closed.
If you or a loved one has been injured, contact the Schuerman Law office today. Schuerman Law has been working with personal injury claims for over 40 years. John Schuerman will compassionately advocate for injured individuals as well as their families while fighting for full compensation of their claims. Schuerman Law offers evening and weekend appointments in addition to home and hospital visits. Schedule a free consultation today by calling 1-800-274-0045.
