Distracted driving is a serious problem on Texas roadways. It’s the cause of thousands of accidents, injuries and fatalities each year.
While everyone knows that things like using your phone, eating and changing the radio are causes of distracted driving, other factors may also lead to an accident. Knowing these three causes of distracted driving can help you keep yourself safe while on the road:
1. Driving while sad or angry
If you feel mad or distressed, you shouldn’t get behind the wheel right away. Driving while agitated, sad or angry increases the risk of an accident almost 10 times.
2. Listening to your favorite song
The type of music you listen to and the volume you play it at can impact your driving. If you tend to blast your music while driving, it may increase your potential for miscalculations and errors. While this issue is most commonly seen in teen drivers, it can happen to anyone. You can listen to music while driving, just be sure to keep the volume at a reasonable level.
3. Having your pet loose in the car
If you drive with your pet in the car, it’s important to use some type of pet restraint. If you allow your pet to sit in your lap or wander in the vehicle, they may become a distraction and cause you to make a mistake and get in an accident.
Your rights if you are in an accident with a distracted driver
If you are involved in an accident with a distracted driver, be sure to protect your rights to recover compensation by gathering evidence at the scene and contacting the authorities. Knowing your legal options will help you get the outcome you desire for your distracted driving accident case.