When behind the wheel of a vehicle, a driver’s primary responsibility is ensuring that he or she follows the rules of the road. A focus on safety can greatly reduce the chance of an accident, and each person is accountable for the choices he or she makes while behind the wheel. One of the most common mistakes drivers make is engaging with distracting behaviors while they are driving. Distracted driving is frighteningly common, making it one of the leading causes of car accidents.
There are certain steps a driver can take that will allow him or her to reduce the chance of an accident and help him or her keep eyes on the road. Good habits lead to better driving, and in turn, this makes California roads safer for everyone. If distraction is the cause of the accident that left you injured, there are things you can do that will help you hold the responsible party to account.
Safe habits are simple
Avoiding distracted driving is not always easy due to the sheer number of things available to a driver that could take his or her attention. From in-car infotainment systems to passengers in the vehicle, there are many factors that could cause distraction that do not involve the use of a phone. Some of the good habits a driver could develop that will reduce the chance of an accident include the following:
- Store all loose items properly in order to reduce the chance something will take one’s attention while driving or impede a driver’s action.
- Reduce the number of passengers in a vehicle as talking and noise can cause distraction.
- Avoid eating and drinking while driving as this causes a driver to remove at least one hand from the wheel.
- Turn the phone off, or place it out of reach so that texting or scrolling social media will not be a temptation.
- Try to avoid putting on makeup, adjusting the temperature, changing the radio or adjusting the navigational system while operating the vehicle.
Drivers who do not drive safely and cause harm to others are responsible for the pain and suffering of the victims. If you believe that distraction played a role in the crash that left you injured, you could have legal options available to you. The civil justice system provides an opportunity for you to seek damages, compensation and justice after a car accident.
