Texting and driving is banned in North Carolina, but there are many other ways you can engage in distracted driving. This dangerous practice can lead to serious accidents and injuries.
The Dangers of Multitasking
Most people would agree that actions like putting on makeup or shaving while driving are not the safest practices, but they might be surprised at other activities that are also dangerous. Examples of multitasking that can take your attention off the road include:
- Talking on the phone
- Dealing with small children in the car
- Eating your breakfast or drinking a soft drink or coffee
- Putting information in a GPS
- Adjusting your music
The Biggest Offenders
It is impossible to eliminate all distractions, but you can do your best to reduce them and be aware of what actions could be distracting. On the other hand, there are three big dangers that you can avoid: texting, talking on the phone and driving under the influence. Only the first and last of these are illegal, but just because something is legal does not mean it is safe.
Even hands-free cellphones can create a distraction because it still takes your attention elsewhere instead of focusing on what is happening in front of you. If you are in a car accident and are injured because another driver was drunk, texting or otherwise distracted, you may be owed compensation that could cover your medical costs and other expenses. You may want to contact an attorney because there could be complications that arise. Some injuries, such as traumatic brain injury and whiplash, might not show symptoms until several days after the accident. The driver\’s insurance company may be reluctant to pay full compensation, or the driver might be uninsured.