Many people have a limited definition of “distracted driving”. They think it only means texting behind the wheel.
There’s good reason for that, because texting requires visual, manual and cognitive attention - the same attention required for safe driving. But although texting is perhaps the most dangerous distraction, there are many others including talking to passengers, eating or drinking or even adjusting the stereo and they can be just as deadly.
How deadly? According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and U.S. Department of Transportation, in 2017 more than 400,000 people were injured in crashes caused by distracted drivers - with more than 3,166 killed.
Here are some startling statistics:
- According to the NHTSA, 660,000 drivers use electronic devices while driving.
- Every year, distracted drivers are responsible for about 2.5 million car crashes.
- 21% of teen drivers involved in a car accident were distracted by cell phones.
- Reaching for an object increases the chances of an accident by 8 times.
- Once a driver is distracted, it takes only 3 seconds for a car crash to occur.
Younger drivers are the most distracted of all - according to the government’s distraction.gov website, people in their 20s make up 38% of drivers who were using cell phones before a fatal crash, and 10% of teen drivers involved in fatal crashes were distracted, too.
Distracted driving isn’t just “one of those things” that happens, like a tire blowout or mechanical failure that isn’t anyone’s fault. It’s 100% preventable - and by committing to avoiding distractions while you drive, you’ll help make the road safer for everyone.
As an added benefit of your 1st Nor Cal membership, we at Lou Aggetta Insurance will help you review the things that are important to you and provide you with options for reducing risk in your life. If you decide to buy an Auto policy you will receive a $25 Gift Card - If you purchase both Auto and Home you will receive a $50 Gift Card.3 We are an independent insurance agent and can provide you with home, auto, life, health, business, and many other types of insurance coverage.
Contact me today to schedule your free review.
