How Many Car Accidents are Caused by Distracted Drivers

Distracted driving is dangerous. Every year, distracted drivers cause thousands of car accidents. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), in 2019, an estimated 3,142 people lost their lives in distracted driving-related crashes in the U.S. – this is a ten-percent increase from the previous year.

Read on to learn more about the hazards of distracted driving accidents.

Distracted Driving Statistics

The problem of distracted driving has grown over the years with the introduction and widespread adoption of mobile smartphones. Here are a few statistics that shed light on the issue of distracted driving accidents:

1. Over 26,000 people died in accidents involving distracted drivers between the years 2012 to 2019;
2. Approximately nine percent of fatal motor vehicle accidents in 2019 involved a distracted driver;
3. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that 25 percent of distracted drivers involved in fatal accidents were young adults aged 20-29.

William Mattar represents accident victims who distracted drivers have injured. If you need the help of an experienced lawyer, contact our offices at (844) 444-4444 today.

What are the Types of Distracted Driving?

According to the CDC, there are three main types of distraction: visual, manual, and cognitive. Visual distraction involves taking your eyes off the road; manual distraction involves taking your hands off the wheel; and cognitive distraction involves taking your mind off the act of driving.

Distracted driving can come in different forms, such as talking to a passenger, texting, adjusting the radio, applying makeup, and eating and drinking. These activities can increase the risk of collision.

What is National Distracted Driving Awareness Month?

April is National Distracted Driving Awareness Month. This month is dedicated to raising awareness about the serious consequences of distracted driving and encouraging safe driving habits. The NHTSA has provided some tips for avoiding distractions and driving responsibly:

• Pull over and park your car in a safe location before sending or reading a text.
• Designate your passenger as your “designated texter.”
• Do not scroll through apps, including social media, while driving.

As part of Distracted Driving Awareness Month, the national paid media campaign “U Drive. U Text. U Pay” will be running from April 8 to April 12. According to the NHTSA, this campaign could see increased law enforcement presence on roadways to discourage texting and driving and remind drivers of the dangers. According to the NHTSA, the campaign “reminds drivers of the deadly dangers and the legal consequences – including fines – of texting behind the wheel.”

What Should I Do if I’m Hit by a Distracted Driver?

After being hit by a distracted driver, you may be disoriented or even in pain. It is vital to seek medical attention immediately if you suspect you’ve been injured. Even in the days after an accident, you should consider seeing your doctor to ensure that you receive necessary treatment.

If you’ve been injured in a distracted driving crash, you may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, emotional anguish, diminished quality of life, or pain and suffering. After your accident, consider consulting with an accident attorney who can advocate on your behalf.

Cell phone use, in particular, is sadly common on the roadways. If the driver who caused your accident was on a cell phone at the time of the accident,  we can investigate the case and help confirm the accident’s cause.  Your lawyer may be able to use evidence, such as cell phone records, to strengthen the claim.

Injured by a Distracted Driver? Call William Mattar Today 

There is no excuse for distracted driving. If you’ve been in an accident caused by a distracted driver, contact William Mattar law offices. Our accident attorneys can work to help you obtain maximum compensation. Don’t wait and lose out on your case — call (844) 444-4444 today to speak to a member of our team.