How To Protect Yourself Against Bradenton Distracted Driving Car Accidents In 2024
Car accidents in Bradenton are a leading cause of death and disability. Distracted driving is one of the most common reasons they happen. Operating a motor vehicle and navigating traffic are complex tasks that require your undivided attention. Being distracted for even a second endangers you and other road users. This coming year, follow these tips from our Bradenton car accident lawyer to help reduce distracted driving risks.
The Dangers Of Distracted Driving In Bradenton
Thousands of motorists are injured each year due to car accidents in the Bradenton area. According to the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT), distracted driving is a common factor in these crashes.
Bradenton distracted driving accidents pose serious risks to drivers, passengers, bicyclists, and pedestrians. It is a common factor in motorcycle and truck accidents as well. There are three basic types of driving distractions that can either result in or contribute to a crash:
- Visual distractions, which cause you to take your eyes off the road in front of you;
- Manual distractions, which cause to you take one or both hands off the steering wheel;
- Mental distractions, such as thinking of other matters or what you are doing later that day, which divert your attention from the road and what is going on around you.
Looking away from the road or being otherwise distracted for just a second can cause you to miss impending signs of a crash. It is particularly dangerous in heavy traffic, in which one wrong move could trigger a collision.
Reducing Bradenton Distracted Driving Accident Risks
Under the Florida Statutes, it is illegal to text or otherwise use a cell phone or any hand-held device while behind the wheel. However, this does not prevent motorists from using voice to text or making calls.
Cell phones are not the only thing that increases distracted driving risks. To help prevent a distracted driving accident in Bradenton, take these precautions:
- Take a deep breath when getting behind the wheel and put thoughts of other matters aside while driving;
- Make a point to keep both hands on the steering wheel at all times;
- Save coffee or fast food for once you are stopped;
- If you have small children in the back, make sure they have what they need before pulling out;
- Resist the urge to adjust your appearance or engage in other distracted behavior while stopped at red lights;
- Give other motorists plenty of room and be aware of signs they may be distracted, such as swerving in and out of lanes.
Request A Consultation With Our Bradenton Car Accident Lawyer
Distracted driving car accidents tend to be complex cases. While you may know the other driver was at fault, it can be challenging to prove they were distracted. At the Law Office of Steven G. Lavely, we gather the evidence needed to help you get compensation in a claim. To request a consultation with our Bradenton distracted driving lawyer, give us a call or contact our office online today.
Sources:
fdot.gov/Safety/programs/distracted-driving.shtm
leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0300-0399/0316/Sections/0316.305.html