April serves as National Distracted Driving Awareness Month and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) provides information that highlights the risks and consequences connected to operating a vehicle while simultaneously performing other actions.

Among America’s drivers, teenagers are the primary at-risk age group for engaging in multiple activities while driving like texting on a mobile device.

Driving distracted poses a serious threat to the welfare of the driver, their passenger(s), and other nearby vehicles. Considering the behavior of all drivers, teenagers tend to be more prone than other age groups when it comes to engaging in texting and other distractions while driving.

Distracted Driving Information

There are three primary classifications of distracted driving:

• Visual: Focusing your eyes on objects outside of the road
• Manual: Using your hands for other purposes than controlling the steering wheel
• Cognitive: When your mind focuses on subjects other than operating a vehicle

Common Activities That Cause Distractions

Anything that takes your complete attention and focus away from operating a vehicle is considered to be a distraction and dangerous.

Texting on a mobile device, calling a friend or family member, adjusting the speaker settings, consuming food, and configuring a GPS device are just a few examples of distracted driving. Each of these actions creates significant risk for the driver and those around them.

Texting on a mobile device while operating a vehicle is especially concerning because it combines all three classifications of distracted driving.

Sending or engaging in a text message forces your eyes off of the road for approximately five seconds on average, which is long enough to drive 100 yards at 55 miles per hour (mph). Close to ten people are killed every day, while another 1,000 people sustain serious injuries as a direct result of distracted driving.

Distracted Driving Among Teenagers and Young Adults

• Those who are under the age of 20 claim the largest share of distraction-related accidents that lead to at least one death.
• In 2015, approximately 45 percent of high school students who operated a vehicle within 30 days admitted to using their smart phone or mobile device while driving.
• Less inclined to wear a seat belt
• More comfortable riding in a vehicle with a drunk driver
• More inclined to operate a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs
• High school students who admitted to using their mobile phones while driving were also:

Other Common Distractions

Cell phone use and texting are not the only contributors to distracted driving. For teenage drivers, allowing other passengers in the vehicle presents a series of potential threats and risks.

It is recommended that parents speak with their teens about the types of distractions they may be inclined to engage with and the potential risks associated with such behaviors or actions. Texting on a mobile device, engaging with other passengers, eating, and adjusting the radio are all dangerous distractions for teen drivers and those around them.

Contact Fast Help For More Information or Legal Support

if you have been injured or have lost a loved one because of a distracted driving accident in Atlanta, contact Fast Help right away.

Our Atlanta personal injury attorneys are experienced at handling such cases and have the resources you need to obtain compensation for all damages sustained. Dial (404) 592-0318 to speak with an attorney 24 hours a day, seven days a week.