Distracted driving can be a danger to everyone on the road. In 2017, distracted drivers were involved in over 56,000 crashes in Maryland, according to the state’s department of transportation. Many of these crashes caused property damage, severe injuries and deaths.
Cell phones are one of the most common distractions drivers in Maryland face. However, it is only legal for a driver to use a phone if he or she has a hands-free device. Maryland law also prohibits texting while driving.
Phones are not the only driving distractions
Although most of the attention to distracted driving focuses on cell phone use, it is important for drivers to recognize that there are many other types of distractions that can be just as hazardous when driving. Anything that takes your eyes off the road, your hands off the wheel or your mind off driving counts as a distraction.
Some common driving distractions include:
- Eating or drinking
- Tending to children
- Daydreaming
- Picking up items from the floor
- Adjusting the radio or temperature controls
How to prevent distracted driving
Because distractions can be different for each person, it may be valuable for you to examine your routines and find the best way for you to avoid the temptation to multitask. For a commuter, this may mean getting up early enough to eat breakfast before leaving the house. For a parent, it may mean creating a habit of finding a safe place to park the car before tending to children. In general, most people can benefit from preprograming radio stations, setting temperature controls before driving and making a personal policy to avoid picking up dropped items while driving.
If you were injured in a car accident caused by a distracted driver, you may be able to receive compensation for medical expenses. No one should have to suffer because of the reckless actions of distracted driver.
