Education on the Hazards of Distracted Driving for Young Adults

 Posted on December 00, 0000 in Distracted Driving Accidents

Distracted driving is not a new controversy, but in recent years its impact on accident statistics has certainly intensified and gained more media attention than ever before. Due to the increasingly wide range of devices we use to manage and navigate our everyday lives, using those devices in the car has naturally become a way of life for many. Sadly, the use of any technological device while behind the wheel is one of the most dangerous behaviors a driver can adopt. While this is true for any driver, it is especially a concern when it comes to young, less experienced drivers. If you are a parent, guardian, teacher, or mentor of a teenager or college student, you can play an important role in steering the youth in your life away from distracted driving behaviors. Impress the following upon your teenager or young adult: Hands-free devices are still dangerous - While the use of a hands-free device certainly helps eliminate some distraction while behind the wheel, the distraction still exists. Even when your hands are on the wheel, your driving skills suffer when your attention is pulled away to a screen or dial. Even simple actions such as adjusting the radio volume or station can deter you from keeping your mind on the road. Passengers matter - Remind your young driver that their influence as a passenger is just as strong as when they are the driver of a vehicle. They have the power to add to - or reduce - the driver’s distraction. By remaining calm, quiet, and limiting their interaction with the driver, they can help them stay focused on the road. Additionally, they can be a voice of reason. When they see the driver using a cell phone or other device behind the wheel, they can speak up and call the driver’s attention to the dangerous behavior. Young people are more at risk for distracted driving accidents - Distraction.gov, the official U.S. government website for distracted driving, reports that young people are the most apt to talk and text behind the wheel of a car. The 15 to 19 year-old age group is most at risk. In fact, 10 percent of all drivers from 15 to 19 years old who are involved in fatal car crashes are reported as distracted at the time of the accidents.

Your young adult driver has the power of influence as both a driver and a passenger, and you possess the same influence as a parent or friend of a young person. If you have been injured in a car accident that stemmed from distracted driving, be sure to speak with a professional Lake County car accident attorney right away. Call Salvi & Maher, LLP today at 847-662-3303 to schedule a free consultation.

Source: http://www.distraction.gov/