Steps are certainly being taken to reduce the number of distracted driving accidents that happen each year. For instance, texting while driving is still common, but it has been banned almost everywhere. Drivers are not supposed to be on their phones because there’s a clear correlation between device use and accident rates.
However, it’s also important to recognize that eliminating all driver distractions may be impossible. Some accidents will still happen, no matter what laws are put in place. There are simply too many forms of distraction, going far beyond cellphone use, for everything to be addressed.
Music as a distraction
For example, some studies have found that drivers can be distracted when they’re listening to music. Yet most drivers will turn on the radio or stream music from their phones while in the car. It’s unlikely that a law would be created to prohibit listening to music. Most drivers don’t even think about how distracting it is, but it can cause accidents.
Daydreaming and mental distractions
Another point to consider is that daydreaming itself can be a distraction. A driver isn’t paying attention to the road when their mind is wandering. But it’s impossible to prohibit daydreaming, and most drivers who are doing it aren’t even aware that it’s happening. They may not even realize – until after a crash – that they stopped paying attention to the road and began mentally focusing on something else—a project, a disagreement with their spouse, their plans for the weekend, etc.
Since car accidents are always going to happen, it’s very important for injury victims to know how to seek compensation.
