4 Ways Teens Can Avoid Distracted Driving – Omaha Injury Attorney Explains
Distracted driving is a major problem on U.S. roads. According to Distraction.gov, more than 3,000 people died in distracted driving crashes in 2013. These accidents can cost victims and their families a veritable fortune, which is why many of them benefit from the help of an injury attorney.
In addition to fatal accidents, distracted driving causes an exorbitant number of injuries. In fact, 424,000 people suffered injuries in 2013 due to distracted driving – which is 3,000 more than the previous year.
No matter how safe you are behind the wheel, it is impossible to control the actions of other drivers. If you were injured due to another person’s negligence, then an Omaha injury lawyer from Rensch & Rensch Law may be able to help. Call us today at 1-800-471-4100 to schedule a consultation.
Teens & Distracted Driving
Teenagers are particularly susceptible to distracted driving, but there are several steps that parents can take to keep their children safe:
- Stash the Electronics
Electronics are a major form of distraction for both new and experienced drivers. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, cell phones – and texting, in particular – are among the most dangerous distractions behind the wheel.
The problem is more common than many people assume. According to the CDC, 31 percent of drivers between 18 and 64 years old claim they have read texts and email messages while driving at least once in the last 30 days.
Even if you are a passenger, your phone can also serve as a distraction to the driver. All passengers should keep their phones out of sight for the duration of the journey in order to prevent distractions.
- If You Are a Passenger, Then Be Alert
While you may not have control over the vehicle as a passenger, there are certain steps you can take to limit the distractions in the car. Make sure you are not in the way of the driver’s vision, and offer helpful suggestions if you notice potential hazards on the road. This is particularly useful if the driver is backing up, or if there is an object in the driver’s blind spot.
- Limit Stress in the Car
When driving, it is important to keep a clear head at all times. If you are a passenger, then there are steps you can take to keep stress levels low.
Do not be an anxious passenger and point out all potential hazards; this will only make the driver nervous. Instead, remain calm and offer suggestions in a manner that reinforces your teen’s driving habits.
- Be Respectful
New drivers should not carry passengers, and even after several months of practice, it is best to minimize the number of people that a teen driver transports.
If the car is full, then passengers must be respectful to the driver at all times. They should not play loud music or move about the car. If they do, then your teen should be prepared to speak up and address the problem.
Most distractions in car accidents come from inside the vehicle, and as a parent, you can do your part to prevent them. If you or your teen was in a crash due to another driver’s negligence, then an Omaha injury lawyer from Rensch & Rensch Law may be able to help. To schedule a consultation, call us today at 1-800-471-4100.
