April is Distracted Driving Awareness Month: What the Latest Research Says About Distraction And Our Abilities Behind the Wheel

In the chaos of everyday life, it’s easy to succumb to bad habits. Few, however, are as dangerous or as potentially tragic as driving while distracted.

Hence, the importance of recognizing Distracted Driving Awareness Month. Held in April, this important occasion draws attention to the ongoing problem of distraction on our roads — and the tragedies this concern prompts. We’ve highlighted a few of the latest statistics to provide additional insight into the role of distraction:

Distraction Is Common

We all know that distracted driving is dangerous, but that doesn’t always stop us from engaging in problematic behaviors. Alarming, data from State Farm indicates that over half of drivers use mobile devices in some way while operating vehicles. Texting has previously attracted a lot of attention, but many drivers also use their phones to check social media or send emails.

Distraction Is Deadly

Distraction behind the wheel prompts thousands of deaths every year. In 2019, for example, National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) data reveals that 3,142 people lost their lives due to distracted driving.

Even more shocking? Estimates from NHTSA suggest that over 26,000 people died between 2012 and 2019 because of distracted driving. Even one fatality is tragic — but tens of thousands of lives lost due to the preventable cause of distraction is downright devastating.

Any Distraction Can Be Dangerous

Distracted driving takes many forms, including not only texting or chatting on the phone, but also, eating and applying makeup. Even brief periods of distraction should be avoided. After all, in the one second it takes to look down at a text, your vehicle can travel an astounding 88 feet.

Did a distracted driver’s negligence cause you to suffer? Contact Regan Zambri Long PLLC to learn about your options for securing personal injury compensation.