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Distracted Driving: A Leading Cause of Virginia Car Accidents

Driver inattention causes as many as 80% of all Virginia car crashes. While the most common form of distraction is cell phone use, driver inattention refers to anytime a driver focuses attention on something other than the road, such as children in the back seat, a cup of coffee, a soda can rattling under the passenger seat, a GPS device, or even the application of makeup.

Here are some tips on how to avoid causing a distracted driving accident:

• Secure loose objects before setting off.
• Secure children in car seats and seatbelts.
• Make sure you are awake and alert enough to complete your journey safely.
• Turn cell phones to vibrate and place them where they will not invite distraction.
• Ensure that beverage lids are secure and cup holders adequately clean.
• If driving with a pet, make sure it is properly restrained for the length of the trip.
• Wait until you park your car and turn off the engine before performing non-driving activities.
  

The impulse to use a phone while driving can be tempting, especially if you are lost and need directions. You can avoid using a cell phone for directions with a few techniques, most of which require simple planning:

• Read directions before leaving to get an idea of the route.

• Position mirrors before leaving to avoid unnecessary head turning.

• Slow down when looking for street names, while staying aware of the cars around you.

• Make sure GPS devices are secured to the dashboard or window.

• Mount printed directions to the dashboard to reduce eye movement from the road.

According to Drive Smart Virginia, a driver on a cell phone is six times more likely to be involved in an accident. Texting requires even more attention than talking, and takes away even more of a driver’s reaction time. Drivers on cell phones are just as accountable for their actions as drunk drivers, especially when there is no difference in the amount of damage they can cause. If someone you love was injured as a result of a distracted driver, call an experienced Virginia personal injury attorney today at (703) 591-0067 for a consultation.

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