Distracted driving can significantly increase your risk of getting into an accident while traveling on a Florida road. As a general rule, anything that takes your focus away from the road is a distraction. However, there are a variety of proactive steps that you can take to minimize your risk of losing that focus while your vehicle is in motion.
Refrain from using your cellphone
Unless you’re using your phone as a GPS, it’s generally better to keep it out of sight while traveling. If you do receive a phone call, text message or other important notification, you shouldn’t reach for your device until after coming to a complete stop in a parking lot or on the side of the road.
Don’t chat with passengers
While having someone to talk to during the commute to work may be great in theory, it may actually increase your risk of getting into an accident. This may be especially true if you’re a teen driver who doesn’t have a lot of experience operating a motor vehicle. It’s important to note that you could be responsible for any damages that passengers incur in any car accidents that you cause. If you are a passenger involved in a crash, it may be a good idea to consult with a personal injury attorney as you could be entitled to compensation.
Eat before you leave home
If possible, you should consume food and beverages before leaving for work, school or other destinations rather than while behind the wheel. On longer road trips, you should eat at a rest stop as opposed to doing so while driving. In addition to taking your eyes off the road while eating, food and beverages spilled in your car can cause a distraction.
As a general rule, distracted driving is considered to be a negligent action. Therefore, if you are hurt in a crash caused by a distracted driver, it may be possible to obtain a financial award. This award may make it easier to pay medical bills, recoup lost wages or replace property that was damaged in the crash.