Distracted Driver
The National Highway Traffic Safety Association describes distracted driving as anything that diverts attention from driving to some other task. In today’s busy world it can be easy for people to think they need to multitask to get everything done they need to, especially while driving. However, there have been many studies that prove the human brain cannot efficiently multitask, instead it just toggles between tasks slowing the reaction time by 2.5 times.
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Common Distractions
The effects of distracted driving can be fatal, in fact over 3,000 people were killed in motor vehicle crashes involving distracted drivers in Utah in 2019. Any non-driving activity you engage in is a potential distraction and increases your risk of crashing. Some examples of distractions could be:
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Electronic devices (phone, computer, etc)
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Other passengers
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Pets that are in the car
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Radio
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Eating and drinking
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Grooming
One of the most common distractions among the recent years is texting while driving, and is usually seen with drivers between the ages of 16 and 25. Sending or reading a text takes your eyes off the road for up to 5 seconds. At 55 mph, that’s like driving the length of an entire football field with your eyes closed.
Distracted driving is a form of negligence, so if you or someone you know has been injured in an auto accident in which they believe was caused by the other driver being distracted, it is important that they take immediate steps to protect their legal rights and their case. Schedule your free consultation today with Accident Experts Today!
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The law also establishes a few specific situations where drivers are allowed to use their phones manually. Under Utah’s current driving laws, it legal to use your phone for any of the following purposes while driving:
- Talking on the phone
- Reporting criminal activity
- Reporting a medical emergency (i.e. calling 9-1-1)
- Viewing a GPS or navigation device, including apps
- Reporting a safety hazard, such as an erratic driver
