As many experienced drivers may be aware, driving is a task that requires one’s full attention. While driving, whether one’s eyes or one’s mind is engaged in an activity that does not involve driving, it can be a distraction that can result in a fatal car accident. In 2016 alone, 3,450 people died as a result of distracted driving. In 2015, almost 400,000 people were injured in a crash involving a distracted driver.
As Louisiana residents may be aware, the consequences of distracted driving are real. Additionally, this type of an accident is completely avoidable if the driver does not succumb to distractions. The biggest distraction seems to be texting and driving, an act that many people are engaged in while driving. In fact, the National Highway Traffic Safety Association reports that teens were the largest age group reported to be distracted in fatal crashes.
It is important to recognize though, that texting and driving is just one form of distracted driving. Anything that takes one’s attention away from the road can be considered a hazard. For example using the GPS, talking to people in the car and eating and drinking can also be dangerous, if one is not concentrating on the task at hand, i.e., driving.
Losing someone in an unexpected car accident, one that could have easily been avoided, can be devastating. It also brings with it many financial burdens that might be difficult to carry. Hospital expenses, funeral expenses and lost wages are just some of the financial issues that arise and could be covered in a civil lawsuit against a negligent driver.
