Common Driver Distractions That Lead to Car Accidents in Illinois

Many people are so used to the task of driving that it almost becomes automatic, and their minds may wander to other things while they are on the road. However, the truth is that driving often requires one’s full attention, and anything that distracts from the task at hand can potentially lead to an accident. When these car crashes occur, the distracted driver can often be found at fault.

Examples of Distracted Driving

In general, safe driving requires eyes on the road, hands on the wheel, and concentration on the driving task. Distracted driving can involve anything that detracts from one or more of these things. Some possible examples include:

• Using a cell phone - This may be the first example that comes to mind, especially since Illinois law specifically prohibits texting and other handheld cell phone use while operating a motor vehicle.
• Eating or drinking - This often involves taking hands off of the wheel, which can delay a driver’s reaction time.
• Reaching for an object - This can remove the driver’s hands from the wheel and their eyes from the road.
• Talking to a passenger - This can involve simply getting lost in conversation, or turning to speak to a passenger in the backseat. Children are common distractions for parents, while young drivers often face distractions from their peers.
• Adjusting car controls - Radio, GPS, and climate controls are often positioned such that a driver has to reach away from the steering wheel and look away from the road to adjust them.
• Looking at something outside of the vehicle - Distractions on the side of the road often take a driver’s attention away from what is happening in front of them, which may lead to lane drift or a rear-end collision.

Any of these behaviors, as well as other examples of distracted driving, may be considered negligent if they cause an accident that injures another person.

Demonstrating a Distracted Driver’s Negligence

If you have been injured in an accident with a suspected distracted driver, you should hire an attorney who can help you build a case for compensation. Often, evidence of erratic driving, such as video camera footage or witness testimony, is sufficient to demonstrate a driver’s fault and secure the compensation you need. However, specific evidence of distracted driving can make your case even stronger. Your attorney can help you obtain police reports, cell phone records, and testimony from passengers who may be able to speak directly to the driver’s distracted state at the time of the crash. All of this evidence can be used as leverage in settlement negotiations, or to persuade a judge and jury in a personal injury trial.

Contact a DuPage County Personal Injury Attorney

At the Mevorah & Giglio Law Offices, we can help you recognize common signs of distracted driving that may have been a factor in your accident, and work to hold the at-fault driver accountable. Contact an experienced Naperville, IL car accident lawyer today at 630-420-1000 for a free initial consultation.

Source:

https://crashstats.nhtsa.dot.gov/Api/Public/ViewPublication/812926