Staying Safe on West Virginia Roads
In West Virginia, as in the rest of the country, distracted driving is a leading cause of road accidents, injuries, and fatalities. Understanding the risks and identifying distracted drivers can significantly enhance your safety on the road. Keep reading for information on recognizing the signs of distracted driving and what practices to adopt for safer driving.
The Dangers of Distracted Driving
Distracted driving occurs any time a driver diverts their attention from the road. This may involve using a smartphone, eating, applying makeup, or even changing the radio station. The consequences can be dire: distracted driving reduces a driver's reaction time and awareness of their surroundings, increasing the likelihood of a car accident.
Signs a Driver Is Distracted
Distracted driving is anything that takes your eyes off the road, your hands off the wheel, or your mind off driving. It's surprisingly easy to become a distracted driver without realizing it.
Here are common signs that someone may be distracted while driving:
- Swerving or erratic lane changes: Often, distracted drivers have trouble maintaining a straight path.
- Inconsistent speed: Alternating between speeding up and slowing down without apparent reason can indicate distracted driving.
- Delayed responses to traffic signals: If a driver takes an unusually long time to start moving after a light turns green, they might be distracted.
- Visible use of a mobile device: If you can see a driver texting, dialing, or scrolling through their phone, they are undoubtedly distracted.
- Looking down or away from the road frequently: Even if you can't see a device, a driver who consistently looks down or to the side is likely not focused on driving.
If you encounter a distracted driver on the road, it's crucial to maintain a safe distance from their vehicle to minimize the risk of an accident. Additionally, consider safely changing lanes or altering your route to avoid driving near them.
Safe Driving Practices
Now that you know how to spot the signs of a distracted driver, what can you do to keep yourself from becoming distracted? The first step in avoiding distracted driving is recognizing common distractions you are susceptible to. Then, take measures to mitigate those distractions. For example, if you struggle not to pick up your phone when it rings, put it on silent and place it out of reach in the back seat.
More tips for ensuring your full attention is on the road:
- Prepare before you drive: Adjust mirrors, set your GPS, and choose your music playlist before departing.
- Focus on the road: Keep your mind actively engaged in driving by scanning the road for hazards and monitoring your mirrors.
- Take breaks: For long trips, schedule breaks to rest, eat, or check your phone safely.
By practicing these habits, you make the roads safer for yourself and contribute to our community's overall safety.
Injured by a Distracted Driver? Here’s What to Do
Unfortunately, even the most cautious drivers can be injured by other drivers. If this happens to you or a loved one, your health and safety are your first priorities. You are also encouraged to consult with an attorney to understand your legal rights and whether seeking compensation for your injuries is worthwhile.
Steps to take if you are injured in a distracted driving accident:
- Seek medical attention immediately: Always prioritize your health, even if the injuries initially seem minor.
- Document the scene: If you can, take photos of the vehicles involved, the surrounding area, and anything that might indicate the other driver was distracted.
- Gather witness information: If there were any witnesses to the accident, get their contact information.
- Report the accident: Report the accident to the police and your insurance company as soon as possible.
- Seek legal counsel: Consult with a law firm experienced in handling car accident claims related to distracted driving, like ours, at Katz Kantor Stonestreet & Buckner, PLLC.
Our law firm understands the dangers of distracted driving. Our knowledgeable attorneys are here to help if you've been injured by a distracted driver. Contact us to discuss your case and explore your options for seeking compensation.