How to Avoid Being Distracted While Driving
April is recognized as Distracted Driving Awareness Month throughout the United States, as the problem of distracted driving persists at shockingly high rates. Statistics from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) show that on an annual basis, roughly 3,000 fatal traffic accidents in the U.S. involve distracted drivers. What’s worse, in 2018 alone, an additional 400,000 people were injured in distracted driving-related accidents.
Cullan & Cullan is taking time this Distracted Driving Awareness Month 2021 to share our tips on how to avoid being distracted while driving. We encourage you to keep them in mind when you get into the driver’s seat; the more drivers that do, the safer our roads in Omaha will be.
If You Start to Feel Drowsy, Safely Pull Over
Drowsiness can lead to fatal accidents, particularly when a drowsy driver falls asleep behind the wheel. If you begin to feel drowsy, don’t be afraid to pull over; rest stops are a viable option for many motorists. If you are feeling fatigued but have not set out on the road yet, postpone your trip until after you have gotten some rest. You can also ask a friend or someone you trust for a ride.
Cell Phones Should Be Used for Emergencies Only
Under Nebraska state law, drivers of all ages are not allowed to text and drive, and drivers under the age of 18 are prohibited from any and all handheld cell phone use. That being said, all drivers are discouraged from using their cell phones for any reason while behind the wheel, as cell phone use is dangerous for all ages. No matter how long a person has been driving, their attention will inevitably be taken away from the road when using a cell phone, even if these devices are being used with voice-operated or hands-free technology.
Don’t Listen to Music too Loudly
Listening to loud music while driving is certainly fun, but unfortunately, it can cloak sounds outside the vehicle, such as sirens and car horns. Wait until you get home to listen to loud music; this way, you won’t be putting others (and yourself) at risk of injury.
Don’t Eat or Drink (Non-Alcoholic Beverages Included) while Driving
While it is not illegal to do these things while driving, it is risky. Eating and drinking coffee or other non-alcoholic beverages while driving not only takes one hand off the wheel to hold these delicious items but also takes your attention away from the road. Our lawyers recommend pulling over or waiting until you get to your destination to eat and drink.
Take Care of Personal Hygiene and Grooming Before You Leave
Surprisingly, many drivers are guilty of fixing their appearance, putting on makeup, or even shaving while driving. This is not only dangerous for others on the road, but if you do cause an accident, even a minor one, you could end up poking your eye with your eyeliner or severely cutting yourself with your razor. Simply take care of these tasks before you leave your house.
Refrain from Rubbernecking at Accident Sites and Work Zones
Let’s be honest, rubbernecking when you have been stuck in traffic for the past 10 minutes can be hard to resist, whether it is due to the worry that emergency services are responding to a fatal accident or curiosity over what the construction work is for. There is rarely anything to gain from rubbernecking, however. Most of the time, you cannot see anything beyond the first responders or construction workers. It is best to avoid rubbernecking when you can.
If You Have Been Injured, We’re Here for You
Cullan & Cullan has a team of experienced trial lawyers prepared to represent catastrophically injured Omaha residents against the negligent parties that caused them harm. Our lawyers also hold medical degrees — a qualification rare among acclaimed trial lawyers. Through the application of our legal prowess and medical knowledge, we have achieved over $350 million in verdicts and settlements for our clients, making it possible for them to heal from their injuries and move on with their lives.
Get in touch with an Omaha doctor-lawyer who genuinely cares about winning you justice. Call (402) 882-7080 or fill out an online form to book a free consultation.