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U.S. drivers use phones in riskier ways, put others in danger

On Behalf of | Dec 2, 2019 | Car Accidents

In Florida and across the U.S., distracted driving has long been an epidemic. A report from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety shows that it is becoming more of a danger as more drivers get away from talking on the phone and start to use it for other purposes.

The report compared the results of two observational surveys involving drivers who were moving to or stopped at red lights in four Northern Virginia communities. From the first survey made in 2014 to the second survey, made in 2018, there was no discernible increase in distracted driving, but there was evidence that drivers were manipulating their phones more than ever. This raises by 66% the risk for a fatal car crash.

In 2017, some 800 crash deaths in the U.S. were due to drivers texting or using their phones for something other than talking. While talking can center drivers’ eyes on the center of the road, manipulating a phone takes drivers’ eyes off the road completely.

The report states that phone use was not the only distracting activity noted in both surveys. Drivers would become distracted by drinking coffee or holding conversations with passengers. Though there has been no discernible increase in distracted driving, it is thought to be underreported.

When distracted drivers cause car accidents, they may lie to the police to avoid claims. However, when it is clear who was to blame for a crash, those who were innocent may file a claim to be reimbursed for their injuries. This is where an attorney versed in personal injury law may be helpful. Such attorneys might have a network of investigators and other experts work to strengthen the case with evidence against the defendant.

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