Mobile Device Use While Driving Poses Risk of Car Accidents

Mobile Device Use While Driving Poses Risk of Car Accidents

The concept that a person can perform two or more tasks simultaneously and still perform them well is one that is central to modern society. Science shows, however, that despite popular opinion, the human race is not good at multitasking. Unfortunately, mobile devices have become so interwoven into our daily lives more and more people are using them while behind the wheel. Indeed, U.S. safety officials have a growing concern that the modern technology that has infiltrated our vehicles – despite the intent of making travel safer – has made America’s roads more dangerous. Mobile device use is a top culprit behind this trend.

Using Cell Phones While Driving in Colorado

Using Cell Phones While Driving In Colorado

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that more than 480,000 Americans were simultaneously driving while using their cell phones at any given point during the day in 2016. This number is a significant reduction from NHTSA statistics from 2012, which topped at 660,000 Americans driving every day while using their cell phones. This trend is no surprise and caused many states across the country to pass laws banning the use of cell phones while behind the wheel. In response, many drivers have switched to “safer” hands-free device options including headsets, Bluetooth, and earbuds. Studies show, however, that hands-free is not the solution to the problem is multi-tasking itself. Simply put, human brains do not efficiently switch between tasks, as doing so decreases the brain’s processing speed of images by one-third.

Distracted Driving Is Dangerous

Using Cell Phones While Driving In Colorado; Distracted Driving Is Dangerous

While cell phone use is on the top of the list as a cause of distracted driving in the U.S., it is not the only culprit. Some other common causes of distracted driving include:

  • Using GPS systems: many of us depend on our GPS to get most places while driving. Setting up a GPS and following it is just as dangerous as texting while driving because it takes your eyes off the road.
  • Adjusting controls in the car: whether it’s changing the radio, increasing or decreasing the air conditioning temperature, or putting on or taking off cruise control, any distraction – no matter how small – can increase the risk of accidents.
  • Talking to passengers: while speaking with a passenger is only natural, and feels almost mandatory, it is critical to remember to focus on the road before everything else. Turning to look at passengers can end up in a crash.
  • Daydreaming while driving: zoning out happens sometimes – on a familiar route or during a long road trip. Be careful of driving on autopilot and not really paying attention to your surroundings while behind the wheel as this can be a recipe for disaster.

Injured? Contact a Colorado Springs Attorney

Using Cell Phones While Driving In Colorado; Distracted Driving Is Dangerous; Injured_ Contact A Colorado Springs Attorney

If you or someone you know has been hurt in a Colorado Springs car accident, know that you may be entitled to monetary compensation for injuries suffered. The knowledgeable car accident attorneys at the Springs Law Group have experience representing the injured across the state and can help seek the monetary compensation you deserve.