Most of us lead very busy lives, and we’re happy for the odd distraction or two. Once behind the wheel of a car, however, distractions can become deadly, and texting (and other text-based activities with one’s smartphone) is the most dangerous distraction of them all. If a distracted driver leaves you or someone you care about injured in a car accident, consult with an experienced Los Angeles personal injury attorney regarding how best to proceed.

Distracted Driving Defined

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) define distracted driving as engaging in anything other than one’s primary task of driving safely while behind the wheel of a vehicle. CDC provides three classifications of distracted driving, which include:

• Visual – When a driver’s eyes are not on the road ahead (such as when a motorist is looking at his or her smartphone)
• Manual – When a driver’s hands are not both on the steering wheel (such as when a motorist is holding or otherwise handling his or her smartphone)
• Cognitive – When a driver’s thoughts are on something other than navigating the roadway safely (such as when a motorist is reading or writing a text)

As demonstrated, texting manages to combine all three classifications of distraction into one incredibly dangerous practice. As a point of reference, CDC shares that, when traveling at 55 miles per hour, a texting motorist’s eyes leave the road for approximately 5 seconds, which is enough time to drive the length of a football field (while essentially blind).

The National Safety Council Weighs In

The National Safety Council (NSC) weighs in on exactly how dangerous texting behind the wheel is by sharing that multitasking safely while driving is a myth and that, when drivers are texting, accidents related to delayed braking and missed traffic signals become far more likely. Additionally, while we’re well aware of how closely related texting and life-threatening car accidents are, we can’t pinpoint just how significant the problem is – because these accidents go under-reported (motorists aren’t likely to admit usage in the aftermath of accidents). Further, NSC shares that there simply is no safe way to interact with a smartphone while driving – even the hands-free mode is dangerously distracting. Ultimately, NSC shares that smartphone usage is a factor in 27 percent of all car accidents on our roads and that texting behind the wheel is on the rise.

You Need an Experienced Los Angeles Distraction Personal Injury Lawyer on Your Side

If you – or someone you love – have been injured by someone who was texting behind the wheel – or was otherwise distracted – it’s an incredibly difficult situation. That’s why the dedicated personal injury attorneys at Jahrmarkt & Associates – proudly serving Los Angeles and all surrounding areas – are committed to skillfully advocating for your best possible claims resolution. Our formidable legal team is on your side, so please don’t hesitate to reach out by contacting or calling us at 310-226-7676 to schedule a free case evaluation today.