By: Elizabeth Roland
Each day in the United States, more than nine people are killed and more than 1,153 are injured in crashes involving a distracted driver. Any activity that diverts attention from the road is considered distracted driving.
The number one cause of automobile accidents is cell phone usage. In 2011, at least 23% of auto collisions involved cell phones (1.3 million crashes). This isn’t shocking considering that 91% of Americans own a cell phone. The government has tried to limit the number of crashes involving phone use by putting laws in place. Fourteen states prohibit all drivers from using hand-held cellphones while driving, and 44 states have a ban on texting for all drivers.
The second major driving distraction is interactions with passengers. The simple action of conversing with other people may not seem very distracting, but it requires more focus and attention than expected. This is focus and attention that can no longer be applied to actual driving.
Reaching for food, fallen items, aux cords, radio controls or other items are also major distractions. Even going through a drive-through restaurant and trying to open your burger or nuggets while driving away usually involves a couple of swerves and break taps.
Many people take their lives for granted while on the road, not expecting anything to happen to them. Humans aren’t actually invincible; driving is dangerous and distractions are real threats. When you take your focus from the road, not only are you endangering yourself, but you’re endangering everyone else around you. Buckle up, put the phone down, eat while you’re parked and drive safely!
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