The Impact of Distracted Driving on Accidents

Distracted driving is a serious issue in North Carolina. In just a single recent year, it contributed to almost 48,000 crashes statewide – or about 17 percent of all North Carolina car accidents. These collisions resulted in over 130 deaths, leaving many families dealing with the heartbreak of losing a loved one due to preventable driver distraction.

Distracted driving involves driving while doing any activity that takes attention from the road, including texting, eating, or adjusting the radio. Even a few seconds of distraction can lead to devastating consequences. When drivers focus on something other than driving, their reaction times slow significantly. This delay can prevent them from braking in time, avoiding a collision, or responding to sudden changes in traffic. Distractions impair decision-making and make accidents more likely.

The Dangers of Distracted Driving Explained

Distracted driving puts everyone on the road at risk. It reduces a driver’s ability to focus, react, and make safe decisions. These dangers come from three main types of distraction:

• Visual distractions take a driver’s eyes off the road. Examples include looking at a phone, reading a map, or glancing at passengers or scenery.
• Manual distractions take the driver’s hands off the wheel. Common examples include texting, eating, or reaching for an object in the car.
• Cognitive distractions take a driver’s mind away from the task of driving. Stress, conversations, or deep thought can prevent drivers from fully focusing on the road.

Each type of distraction limits a driver’s ability to react in time to avoid accidents.

Examples of Distracted Driving

While some distractions may seem minor, they can have serious consequences in a split second. Below are common examples of driving distractions and how they can impact road safety:

• Texting and driving or using a phone – Sending a text or browsing on your phone takes your eyes off the road, your hands off the wheel, and your mind off driving.
• Eating or drinking – Grabbing a bite or sipping a drink might seem harmless, but it requires at least one hand to leave the wheel.
• Adjusting controls – Changing the radio station, adjusting climate settings, or programming a GPS can pull your attention away, even if it only takes a few seconds.
• Personal grooming – Applying makeup, fixing your hair, or shaving while driving forces you to look in the mirror and remove at least one hand from the wheel.
• Reaching for objects – Stretching to grab a dropped item or an object in the passenger seat requires you to take your eyes and attention away from the road momentarily.
• Listening to loud or distracting music – Music that is overly loud or attention-grabbing can drown out important sounds, like sirens or honking, and pull focus from your driving tasks.

The Legal Consequences of Distracted Driving in North Carolina

North Carolina law prohibits drivers from using handheld mobile devices to text or email while driving. This rule applies to all drivers, regardless of age or experience. For drivers under 18, stricter regulations ban all cell phone use while driving, with some exceptions. Violating these laws can lead to significant penalties. Drivers convicted of distracted driving can face monetary fines and court costs.

Distracted driving can also be considered negligence in a car accident lawsuit. If a distracted driver causes a crash, they can be held responsible for any injuries or property damage that result. Victims of distracted driving car accidents can pursue compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering caused by the driver’s actions.

Claiming Compensation as a Victim of a Distracted Driving Accident

The impact of a distracted driving crash often goes beyond immediate medical bills. Many victims face ongoing expenses, financial setbacks, and emotional strain. If you suffer injuries in a distracted driving accident, you could be entitled to financial compensation for the losses you experience, such as:

• Medical expenses, including the costs of emergency care, hospital stays, surgeries, and medication
• Ongoing medical expenses for things like follow-up appointments
• Any income you lost if you couldn’t work during your recovery
• Projected losses in long-term earning capacity due to your injuries
• The physical pain and emotional distress resulting from your injuries
• Changes in your ability to enjoy activities, relationships, or independence

Tips to Prevent Distracted Driving Accidents

Distractions can happen to anyone, but taking proactive steps can reduce the risk of causing or being involved in a crash. Here are some practical tips to help you avoid distractions and drive safely:

• Put your phone out of reach while driving.
• Use hands-free devices for calls if necessary.
• Set GPS directions before starting your trip.
• Avoid eating or drinking while driving.
• Secure pets and loose items in your vehicle.
• Finish personal grooming before leaving home.
• Ask passengers to assist with non-driving tasks.
• Keep your focus on the road at all times.
• Pull over to handle urgent matters.
• Limit in-car conversations to avoid cognitive distractions.
• Avoid using in-car entertainment systems while driving.
• Take breaks on long drives to stay alert.
• Keep children occupied with safe activities in the back seat.
• Always prioritize safe driving over multitasking.

Have You Been in an Auto Accident Caused by Distracted Driving?

The right legal team can make a real difference in your case. The car accident attorneys at Hardison & Cochran will provide personalized attention and fight for the recovery you deserve. You can hear it directly from clients who trusted us during difficult times and experienced the results firsthand:

“From the very first contact I had with Hardison & Cochran I could tell that my best interest was a priority. My Case Manager was always ready to help me and get answers to any questions that I had. Ben Cochran handled my case and I can say that he kept me informed of how it was progressing as well as making sure I saw the doctors I needed to see. When it came time to settle my case Ben went the extra mile for me!”

– Greg W.

Our firm has over 40 years of experience helping car accident victims in North Carolina. We have recovered millions of dollars for our clients to help them move forward after serious crashes. If you or someone you love has suffered injuries in a distracted driving accident, contact Hardison & Cochran today for a free initial consultation.