Distracted driving is a major cause of auto accidents and fatalities across the country. The multi-tasking of motorists behind the wheel has directly led to over 8,000 accidents a day (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration). Driving distracted is caused by alcohol, texting, fatigue, drugs, applying makeup, eating, drinking, reading, looking at construction sites, and even other passengers in the vehicle. Unfortunately, children riding in the backseat often cause new parents to drive distracted.
“Turning around to talk to children in the backseat is the number one cause of distracted driving for parents,” explains Mike Wyatt, 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.”
New parents are more at risk for distracted driving because of their increased responsibilities of caring for young children. They end up multi-tasking behind the wheel, while frantically running their daily errands. Moms and dads start texting, handing out snacks, looking for lost toys, playing music or movies, and talking on the phone when they should have their eyes on the road. Further adding to the distracted driving problem, is the fact that new parents often 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,” Mike says. “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.”
Call our auto accident attorneys for consultation if you have been injured by a distracted driver. Mann Wyatt Tanksley Injury Attorneys is honored to assist in your full recovery.
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