Which distractions most frequently cause crashes?

On the road, there are a myriad of issues that threaten the safety of all drivers and those riding in their vehicles as well. However, distractions are especially concerning and widespread among drivers. Drivers become distracted for a plethora of reasons and some are not even aware that this behavior is so dangerous. As a result, it is essential for drivers to be vigilant and for passengers to speak up if they notice a driver is distracted.

According to data that was gathered by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, more than 696,000 motor vehicle accidents that occurred between July 3, 2005 and December 31, 2007 and involved a driver that was performing at least one activity unrelated to driving when the accident took place. During this period, over 450,000 crashes involved a driver conversing with someone else, the most common distraction. However, there were a number of other distractions listed, such as picking up items from the floor or seat, changing the radio station, looking at other passengers in the vehicle and using a phone.

Sadly, distracted driving accidents claim the lives of many people each year and also leave scores more with debilitating injuries and serious financial problems. In the months ahead, more and more lives will be lost to this dangerous behavior and it is pivotal for victims to know their rights if the crash was caused by someone else’s recklessness. Unfortunately, some drivers will ignore concerns about distracted driving and continue to exhibit this incredibly dangerous behavior while operating a motor vehicle.