Parents exhibit distracted driving behaviors with kids in car

Distracted driving is a nationwide problem and law enforcement and legislators are actively trying to find ways to reduce the number of people who do it. Even those in Baton Rouge and throughout Louisiana who believe they can multitask and use their cellphones behind the wheel will understand that there is a certain level or risk to the activity. Unfortunately, many still choose to do it. This can cause a car accident with severe injuries and death. Researchers are studying this phenomenon, coming up with results that are somewhat stunning. One recent survey indicates that even parents who have children in the vehicle are not immune to the allure of the cellphone.

In the past four years, the number of fatalities on the road has increased in a historic manner. This is happening simultaneously to more people having smartphones with a variety of tempting features. A study by the two institutes of higher learning in Pennsylvania says that half of the parents who took part in the survey admitted to being a distracted driver while they had young kids in the vehicle with them. The children ranged in age from 4 to 10. One-third of the parents said they read text messages. One out of four said they sent texts. One out of seven used social media. The time frame was within the previous three months when they drove with the kids in the vehicle.

In the survey, there were 760 participants. They all either had children in that age range or cared for children in the age range. Since 77 percent of adults have a smartphone, it is no surprise that the usage of them has increased as well. Any behavior that removes a driver’s attention from the road is dangerous. The researchers say that there must be several levels of vigilance to tamp down on the behavior from law enforcement to insurers to counselors. Despite that and the known risks, people still choose to do it and place themselves and others in jeopardy.

When a person encounters a distracted driver, they could find themselves in an accident with injuries, medical expenses, lost wages and even fatalities. The investigation into the circumstances of the crash are vital to a successful legal filing for compensation. Having a law firm that can examine the case and gather evidence to pursue a claim is one of the most important factors to a successful filing. This is critical from the start and a lawyer who understands all areas of car accidents should be called immediately.