How many lives are lost due to distracted driving?

All sorts of traffic hazards can result in the loss of life, and we have discussed some on this blog (intoxicated driving, etc.). However, distracted driving is especially concerning, and many people drive distracted without realizing it. Although many people are aware that using a cell phone while behind the wheel is dangerous (and illegal, depending on where you live), there are many other distractions that can cause a crash. For example, a driver may become distracted by their attempts to change the radio station, grab something off of the floor, or talk to someone else who is riding in their vehicle. Sadly, all distractions which divert a driver’s attention from the road can lead to a deadly crash and many lives have been lost as a direct result of this problem.

According to statistics provided by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 3,450 people passed away in distracted driving accidents during 2016. Moreover, these accidents also lead to a significant number of injuries. The NHTSA reports that in 2015, 391,000 were hurt because of distracted driving accidents. Moreover, the actual number of people who pass away or sustain injuries because of a distracted driving crash may be higher, since distracted driving can be difficult to prove (as opposed to alcohol intoxication, for example).