Depending on the circumstances, driving can be a necessity, or it may be done as a pastime. Many Louisiana residents use their vehicles each day to get to their jobs, but when the moment seizes them, they may choose to hop into their cars and take the scenic route to their destinations. Whether done for pleasure or purpose, however, drivers should always operate their automobiles with care and consideration.
That is because a dangerous phenomenon is affecting many individuals throughout the country. The phenomenon is distracted driving, and this post will address just what it is. Readers are asked, though, to talk to their personal injury attorneys about matters related to their own cases as this post does not give any legal advice.
In the age of smart phones, many instances of distracted driving have to do with technology use. Drivers who text, email, or call others while driving may become distracted and cause dangerous accidents. Entering data into a GPS, changing a playlist, or even dialing a phone number can be dangerous when a driver takes their attention from the road.
Other activities that do not use technology can also lead to instances of distracted driving. Eating food, talking to passengers, reviewing maps or documents, and engaging in personal grooming can all cause drivers to lose focus and forget to pay attention to their surroundings.
Distracted driving is negligent driving, and a driver who is negligent behind the wheel of their car may be liable for the losses and damages of their victims when they cause a motor vehicle accident. Thousands of individuals are affected by distracted driving accidents each year and they may have options for seeking their damages through personal injury-based litigation.