Distracted Driving Accidents

We all know that motor vehicles can be dangerous, especially when the driver is not fully paying attention to the road. Unfortunately, distracted driving is one of the leading causes of car accidents in Kentucky and across the United States. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, distracted driving resulted in over 3,300 traffic fatalities in 2022 (NHTSA Distracted Driving Overview). Additionally, there are many more non-deadly injuries each year that are caused by distracted driving. If you have been injured as a result of a distracted driver, be sure to contact a car accident attorney in Louisville who can help you protect your legal rights and get you compensated for your injuries.

Main Causes Of Driver Distractions

There are many things that can distract a driver while they are operating a vehicle. Some are more common than others, and some drivers are more easily distracted than others. Here are some of the leading causes of driver distractions:

• Cellphones
• Eating while driving
• Interacting with passengers
• Adjusting the radio, air conditioner, seats, or other vehicle options
• Putting on makeup
• GPS systems
• Rubbernecking
• Daydreaming

Some of the items on this list can even distract drivers in more than one way. Take a cellphone, for example. If you are holding the phone, you are physically distracted because you have one hand that is not on the wheel. Looking down at the phone also takes your eyes off the road. Plus, you can get mentally distracted by the conversation you are conducting over the phone. So remember that one device can present multiple distractions!

Distracted driving is preventable, but it requires drivers to commit to avoiding distractions and paying attention to the road. Continue reading to learn some tips on how to avoid distractions while you drive.

Tips For Avoiding Distractions

In most cases, you can avoid distracted driving. However, it requires a great deal of awareness while you are operating your vehicle. First, you can help prevent physical distractions by ensuring that all your vehicle’s settings and adjustments are done prior to getting on the road. Adjust your seat, adjust your mirrors, set the radio, and start the GPS before you begin driving. Once you begin driving, keep your focus on the road. Avoid the temptation to check your phone or rubberneck at things as you drive. Simply being mindful and aware of distractions as you drive can help you avoid many common distractions.

Common Injuries Resulting From Distracted Driving Accidents

As previously mentioned, distracted driving results in thousands of injuries each year. Some of these accidents even result in fatalities. Some of the most common injuries caused by distracted driving include the following:

• Broken bones
• Brain injuries
• Head and neck injuries
• Back and spine injuries
• Lacerations
• Internal organ damage

Staying focused and avoiding distractions not only helps keep you safe but also helps protect others on the road as well.

Getting Help After A Distracted Driving Accident

If you have been injured by a distracted driver, you need the help of an experienced car accident attorney in Louisville. You may have a legal right to compensation for your injuries, and an experienced attorney can help you get a full and fair recovery. Contact the Louisville personal injury lawyers at the law office of Dolt, Thompson, Shepherd & Conway, PSC today to let us learn more about your situation and help get you the compensation you deserve.