The Dangers of Distracted Driving

Earlier this year, Georgia passed the “Hands-Free Georgia Act.” This is one of the biggest changes to Georgia traffic laws in years. The act is attempting to reduce the number of distracted drivers on Georgia roadways. Drivers are now prohibited from holding cell phones, and other electronic devices, while driving. While the goal of the act, to eliminate distracted driving, is admirable, the new law has both its supporters and critics. The supporters are optimistic of its long term effect and think that it will make people aware that distracted driving can be just as dangerous as drunk driving. Critics cite their confusion over what is legal and what is not. Can an address be entered into a GPS while driving? Or is the touching of any electronic device illegal? Even though there are both supporters and critics of this bill, the purpose of eliminating distracted driving is important. Everyone needs to be aware of the dangers of distracted driving.

Driving an automobile requires a lot of attention and focus. We have all heard the pleas to not text and drive because of the danger it poses to yourself and the others around you. However, there are more ways than just texting and driving that can be considered distracted driving. There are three types of distracted driving. Distracted driving can be both visual, manual, or cognitive. Visual distractions are those distractions that cause a driver to take his or her eyes off of the road. Manual distractions are situations in which a driver physically takes his or her hands off of the wheel. There are also cognitive distractions. Cognitive distractions mean that a driver’s mind is not focusing on the task of driving.

Common causes of distracted driving are:

• Texting and driving
• Eating while driving
• Too many people in the vehicle
• Talking with passengers and not paying attention to the road
• Talking on a cell phone
• Fiddling with the radio
• Turning around in the car to tend to kids without pulling the vehicle over

The above is not an all-inclusive list of distractions while driving, but some of the most common types. The consequences of distracted driving are vast. If a driver is found driving distracted, they may face traffic violations and other legal penalties. Additionally, distracted driving can result in injuries, both to the driver and other individuals around them.

If you have been injured by a distracted driver, there are options available to you. Georgia allows for victims of another’s negligence to recover compensation for their injury through a personal injury lawsuit. A dedicated personal injury attorney can help you recover from your injury and receive the compensation to which you are entitled. The personal injury attorneys at Jonathan R. Brockman, P.C. are here to help you. We know that injuries can be difficult and costly to recover from. Choose an attorney who will aggressively fight for your right to receive compensation for your injuries. Contact us today for a consultation.