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Distracted driving: A leading cause of crashes in New Mexico

On Behalf of | Sep 21, 2020 | Motor Vehicle Accidents

It is no secret that distracted driving is a leading cause of car accidents, and distracted driving is a form of negligence. It’s something you should watch out for in the other driver’s behavior if you are involved in a crash. A distracted driver may be texting, talking on a phone, tapping on a phone to change GPS directions, talking to someone in the vehicle, eating or drinking, or otherwise engaging in distracted behavior instead of focusing on safe driving.

Why is distracted driving so common now?

Distractions are common because there are so many of them. Some common distractions that could lead to a collision include:

  • Texting
  • Looking at or changing GPS directions
  • Looking at social media
  • Videoing with a phone
  • Eating behind the wheel
  • Changing the radio station
  • Talking to passengers
  • Quieting children in the vehicle
  • Rubbernecking (looking at another crash or something outside the vehicle)
  • Daydreaming

Studies have shown that phones and digital devices are the leading distraction for drivers. The risk of collisions would be greatly reduced if drivers put aside their digital tools and devices.

The basics of distraction

Distracted driving is dangerous because it takes your mind off driving, your hands off the wheel, and your eyes off the road. Distracted drivers cause approximately 25% of all motor vehicle crash fatalities. That percentage may be greatly reduced simply by minimizing the number of distractions in the vehicle.

If you are injured by a distracted driver, remember that the driver (and the driver’s insurance company) may be held accountable. Speak up and have it noted in the police report if you saw the other driving talking on a phone, texting, or otherwise engaging in distracted behavior.

Getting the compensation you need after a crash

When you’re hurt because of someone else’s negligence, it’s important that you have the opportunity to receive compensation for your losses. Those losses may include medical expenses, lost income and the emotional cost to you and your family. Our motor vehicle accident overview provides more information on personal injury matters.