One of the leading causes of auto accidents in the U.S. is due to distracted driving. Far too many motorists multi-task behind the wheel, which causes serious problems. Over 8,000 accidents a day are directly caused by distracted driving (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration). Distracted driving is caused by a variety of factors: fatigue, texting, alcohol, drugs, eating, reading, phone conversations, applying makeup, and looking at a construction site. It can also be caused by other passengers in the vehicle. One of the biggest causes of distracted driving for new parents is children in the backseat.
“Turning around to talk to children in the backseat is the number one cause of distracted driving for parents,” Mike Wyatt explains, auto accident attorney. “Busy parents who assist their children with food and drinks while driving is also a major safety hazard. It can have serious consequences that result in severe injury and even death.”
Because of the constant needs of their children, new parents are at a high risk for distracted driving.
Dads and moms talk on the phone, turn on music or movies in the car, text, hand out snacks, and look for toys and Binkys. This multi-tasking unfortunately occurs while they hastily run errands or drive kids to daycare. Another factor that contributes to the problem of distracted driving is that new parents suffer from fatigue.
“New mothers on average only get 5 hours and 20 minutes of sleep per night. They also drive on average 150 miles per week,” says Mike. “Studies have shown that new parents who drive distracted are 3 times more likely to be involved in an auto accident. They need to be more organized behind the wheel, take a deep breath, and concentrate on the road for the safety of both themselves and their children.”
Please contact our auto accident attorneys for more information on distracted driving, or if you’ve been the victim of an accident. Mann Wyatt Tanksley Injury Attorneys is honored to represent your case!
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