Approximately 25 percent of all motor vehicle accidents are directly attributable to the use of cellphones and other electronic devices. In fact, people who text and drive significantly increase their chances of becoming involved in a car accident. This means that it is up to you to be extra vigilant on the road so that you can reduce your risk of a collision with one of these drivers.
Distracted driving is not limited to those using their phones behind the wheel. Eating, drinking, changing the radio station or even talking to a passenger are also distractions that can take a driver’s eyes off the road long enough to have a wreck. Here are some warning signs that you are sharing the road with a distracted driver and what you should do.
Warning signs of a distracted driver
In general, distracted drivers display many of the same behaviors as drunk drivers. You might see them driving too fast or too slowly in relation to the flow of traffic or the posted speed limit. In addition, a distracted driver might speed up or slow down without any obvious reason to do so. A driver who lingers too long at a traffic light after it has changed to green or traffic begins moving is probably distracted by something else. Another sign of a distracted driver is drifting in and out of the lane.
What to do if you see a distracted driver
Since distracted drivers can be extremely dangerous for other motorists, you should take countermeasures to avoid contact and proximity. First, assume that the distracted driver does not see you or any other cars or obstructions on the road. Next, put as much distance between you and the suspected distracted driver. If possible, get far enough ahead of the other vehicle so that you are no longer in danger. If this is not possible, slow down and let the distracted driver take a substantial lead so that you are safe from a potential wreck.
While knowing the signs of distracted driving and actions to take if you encounter one can help you avoid a collision, it is not always possible to avoid the actions of others. If you have been the victim of a distracted driver in Connecticut, you might be able to file a claim for your injuries.
