Types of distracted driving

Most Washington residents understand that driving takes considerable skill. While it might look easy, people are actually using their mind and their body in conjunction with each other to safety operate the vehicle. People need to not only understand how their car works, but they need to learn to anticipate potential dangers on the roadways so they can be avoided. In order to do this, people cannot be distracted.

However, distracted driving has become a huge problem in Washington and across the country. With the advent of cell phones and other technology, drivers are no longer unreachable in their cars. Instead, for many drivers, their car becomes a mobile workplace or social hangout.

There are many common types of distractions on Washington roadways. These include distractions from inside the car like eating and drinking, talking with passengers, changing the radio or music or using maps and navigation systems. Other distractions come from the use of cell phones. These can include taking phone calls, using the internet, watching videos or texting and driving. In particular, texting and driving is very dangerous.

Increased distractions have led to increased accidents. In 2012, 421,000 people were injured in accidents where at least one driver was distracted. This was a nine percent increase over the number of distractions in 2011.

When distracted drivers cause car accidents, car accident victims may have legal recourse. They may be able to file a personal injury suit to recover the costs of the accident. A personal injury attorney can help people determine if they have a cause of action against a distracted driver.

Source: Distraction.gov, “WHAT IS DISTRACTED DRIVING?,” accessed Nov. 17, 2014

Matthew D. Dubin

Matthew D. Dubin has represented injured people throughout Washington since 1995. He is the founding attorney of Dubin Law Group and focuses his practice on personal injury claims involving motor vehicle accidents, dangerous products, premises liability, catastrophic injuries, and wrongful death.

Education

• License Number: 25378
• University of Washington School of Law, Seattle, Washington – J.D.
• Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut – B.A.

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