Driving While Distracted Can Cause a Car Accident in Colorado
All drivers have a responsibility when they decide to obtain their license and operate a motor vehicle in Colorado. When behind the wheel of any vehicle, drivers are expected to follow the laws of the road and take the necessary precautions to avoid a car accident. There are a number of reasons that car accidents occur on Colorado roads, but one of the most common reasons is distracted driving. While being a safe driving means not being distracted when behind the wheel, many have failed to do so, and as a result, have caused an accident where someone was left injured or worse.
Cell Phone Usage While Driving in Colorado
Cell phone usage is considered one of the top distractions for drivers. It has become a major problem in the U.S. because even when people are driving, they are making phone calls, texting or posting on social media. In the state of Colorado, it is illegal for drivers to text when operating a motor vehicle. If a person is caught violating this law, they could receive a citation and be fined. There are exceptions, as Colorado law does permit cell phone use while operating a vehicle only when a driver is in danger or reporting a criminal act, hazard or reckless driver. If a driver finds that they need to use their cell phone at any other time, it is recommended they pull off of the road before doing so to ensure they do not cause an accident.
What Are Other Actions Considered Distracted Driving?
Even if it is just for a second, anything can happen when someone takes their eyes off of the road. Anything that causes a driver to take their full attention away from driving is considered a distraction. It is a well-known fact that texting or talking on the phone are both distractions, but there are many things that drivers do on a daily basis that are just as much of a distraction. For example, using the GPS, eating or changing the radio station are all things that can cause people to not fully focus on the road. An additional distraction that people may not even consider is having a conversation with a passenger. Despite being able to keep their eyes on the road while driving, drivers who are engaged in a conversation with a passenger are still not giving driving their undivided attention and can easily miss traffic signs and signals, fail to yield for a pedestrian or not notice hazardous road conditions.
Every day, people die or are injured in a car accident caused by a distracted driver. These types of accidents can easily be prevented if drivers would eliminate these distractions and keep their eyes on the road. The many things that distract drivers can be limited or avoided, but not all drivers take the consequences or dangers seriously. Anyone who has been injured in an accident caused by a distracted driver should contact a skilled attorney at Springs Law Group who can help them get the compensation they deserve.