April is Distracted Driving Awareness Month

It’s April, and spring is in the air. While the days are getting longer and people are looking to get outdoors and plan trips, it is important to know that the month of April also shines a light on distracted driving awareness. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, April is Distracted Driving Awareness Month. There is good reason to dedicate a whole month to this issue, as distracted driving is a leading cause of car accidents that leave many people injured and several thousand deceased every year in the United States.

Individuals that have been injured or lost a loved one in a crash in Florida due to a distracted driver should consult with an experienced attorney. Distracted driving is negligent driving. Victims may be able to secure financial compensation for their losses, such as medical expenses and property damages. The Tampa car accident attorneys at Fulgencio Law offer victims of car accidents free consultations to have their cases reviewed in person or by phone.

How to Reduce and Prevent Distracted Driving Crashes

The best way to reduce or prevent distracted driving crashes is to concentrate on the act of driving and maintain focus on the road at all times. Cell phones are one of the most common reasons why drivers look away from the road or take their concentration away from the wheel. While cell phone use is a major problem that causes distracted driving, it is not the only thing that can steal a driver’s attention. Changing radio stations, adjusting one’s GPS, eating, or trying to manage rowdy passengers are also situations that cause distracted driving.

Drivers should keep their eyes on the road, their minds on operating their vehicles, and both of their hands on the wheel. Doing so can keep a driver more focused on the road and their environment so that they can maneuver their automobile effectively and safely to account for changes in traffic or other road perils. 

Everyone can play a part in stopping distracted driving. First, a driver can make an effort not to allow themself to take their focus away from driving. If a driver must make a call or send a text, it is best to pull off of the road to a safe location and park to do so, for example, but passengers also play a role. If a passenger sees a driver pull out their phone or engage in any other activity that interferes with their attention, they should speak up and ask them to stop so that they can prioritize driving.

Speak with an Attorney at Fulgencio Law Today

Distracted driving kills. In 2021, there were 3,522 people who died in distracted driving-related accidents, and many more were injured. It is important to make drivers aware of the dangers that come with distracted driving and work hard to put an end to this extremely dangerous form of negligence.

If you were hurt in a crash, call the Tampa personal injury attorneys at Fulgencio Law today to schedule a free consultation at (813) 463-0123.