Driver Inattention Becomes Major Issue on New Jersey Roads

With advances in technology, we are constantly connected to our phones. This connection is rapidly becoming an epidemic to those who share the road. Driver inattention, defined as anything that diverts the attention of someone operating a vehicle, has been the leading cause of driver-related fatalities in New Jersey for five years in a row.

In 2018, there were 524 fatal car accidents on state roads. An alarming 146 of those fatal crashes were caused by driver inattention, with 143 of them related to drunk driving. According to the recent State Police report, cell phone usage caused close to 1,400 crashes in 2018, with 75 percent of those crashes involving the driver using a handheld device. Driver inattention covers a large range of issues. The following are a few tips to keep in mind the next time you get behind the wheel:

• Phone Use: Even using hands-free Bluetooth in modern cars is considered driver inattention. It also applies to activities involving your smartphone, such as texting, using the GPS for navigation, picking a song, or looking for a restaurant.
• Passengers: All passengers must be aware before getting on the road that distracting the driver is not a good idea. When driving with pets, restrain them in a crate in the backseat, that way you do not drive with your pet on your lap and the pet stays away from the front passengers.
• Eating and Drinking: We have become accustomed to juggling multiple tasks at once, and technology as helped us do that. However, eating and drinking is a major distraction, as well as smoking, adjusting vehicle controls, or passing by another car accident.

Cell phone usage not only takes the driver’s eyes away from the road, but also their mental process. A report by the National Safety Council found that a driver does not process up to 50 percent of the information they need to operate a vehicle if they are using a cell phone. This prevents a driver from reacting quickly when unexpected events occur on the road. It is best to keep your phone locked away in your glove compartment or tucked away in a bag until you reach your destination. If you need to answer a call in an emergency, pull off to the side of the road away from traffic.

Camden Car Accident Lawyers at DiTomaso Law Represent Victims Injured by Distracted Drivers

If you or a loved one was injured by a distracted driver, contact the Camden car accident lawyers at DiTomaso Law. Our knowledgeable lawyers will fight for the compensation you rightfully deserve. Call us today at 856-414-0010 or fill out our online form for a free consultation. Located in Cherry Hill, New Jersey and Philadelphia, we proudly serve clients throughout southeastern Pennsylvania and South Jersey, including Mt. Holly, Camden County, and Vineland.