People live and work at a fast pace, and many multitask in order to be more productive and finish a long list of daily tasks. While this may be useful at work or home, it is a recipe for disaster if a driver tries 
to multitask while behind the wheel of a car. According to Distraction.Gov, 3,179 people were killed and 431,000 people were injured in accidents caused by a distracted driver in 2014.
Six Ways Distracted Driving Can Cause Your Wreck
Distracted driving is defined as any activity that takes a driver’s attention away from his primary duty of driving. This behavior can involve taking your eyes off the road, your hands off the wheel, or your mind off of driving. If you were involved in an accident, the negligent driver could have been engaged in one of the following distracted driving behaviors:
Using a cell phone.
Many people own cell phones, and talking on a cell phone and texting have become common behaviors when driving. Because using a cell phone often requires that the user take his eyes and mind off the road, the results can be deadly.
Eating and drinking.
Fast-paced lifestyles and the desire for convenience often promote eating while driving. Grabbing a quick meal while dropping off the kids at school, doing errands, or going to work has become the norm. Eating in the car while driving is not only distracting, it can lead to spilled food and beverages that can distract a driver and focus his attention on cleaning up a mess rather than on driving.
Talking to passengers.
While talking with passengers can be enjoyable, drivers need to keep their attention focused on the road instead of conversations with others in the car.
Using a navigation system.
Trying to use a GPS or other navigation system takes a driver’s eyes and concentration off the road and his hand off the wheel. Even a few seconds of fiddling with these systems can distract drivers from seeing sudden dangers on the road.
Grooming.
A driver who puts on makeup or combs her hair while driving may be distracted and have her hands off the wheel.
Reading.
Reading anything—including a map or directions—takes a driver’s eyes, hand, and mind off the road for more than a few seconds. Drivers should pull over, or let a passenger do the reading for them.
Have You Been Injured In A Car Accident?
If you've been hurt in a car accident you need to speak to an experienced car accident lawyer as soon as possible. Please contact us online or call our Warwick office directly at 401.946.3200 to schedule your free consultation. We help accident victims in Providence, Warwick and all areas of Rhode Island.
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