Distracted Driving Involves More Than Texting And Talking

We Americans are multi-taskers. Unfortunately, too many people attempt to multi-task while driving, when they should be focused on the road and those sharing it with them.

Texting and talking on the phone are considered the biggest distracted driving risks. Both are illegal with a hand-held device in New Mexico. However, there are other habits that too many drivers have that distract them and can lead to serious and even fatal crashes.

— Touchscreen systems: Most new vehicles provide a multitude of options at our fingertips. These include music, navigation systems, phones and social media. It can be tempting, particularly on a long drive or while stuck in traffic, to check your email or make a quick call. However, even a touchscreen system requires that you take a hand off the wheel and/or focus your eyes or attention on something besides the road.– Dealing with kids: Even if your children are safely strapped in and being entertained by a DVD in the back seat, they often have a short attention span. It’s difficult to ignore the questions and complaints of your children, but it’s essential to keep your eyes and mind on the road. If there’s an issue that needs dealing with, pull safely off the road to attend to the problem.

— Eating and drinking: We’ve almost all been guilty of this at some point, particularly with drive-thru Starbucks and fast food chains everywhere. Even if you don’t chow down on your burger on the way back to the office, you probably sneak a French fry or two or enjoy your beverage. It’s a timesaver, to be sure, but can also be dangerous to you, your passengers and others. Either pull into a parking space to enjoy your food and drink or wait until you get to your destination.

— Grooming: Many people rush out to work in the morning without all their make-up done or their hair properly brushed. It’s tempting to make these finishing touches at stoplights or while stuck in traffic. Either allow yourself more time in the morning before you leave for this or wait until you’re at your destination.

If you’ve been injured in a crash caused by a negligent or reckless driver, your attorney can help work to determine whether the at-fault driver was engaged in distracted driving. This can help you get the compensation you need and deserve.