The Dangers of Distracted Driving [Infographic]

Distracted Driving Statistics

Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of car crashes in the U.S. — and the consequences can be deadly. From cell phone use to tending to children in the backseat, any task that takes your eyes off the road can increase your risk of being involved in a devastating motor vehicle accident. Here are some eye-opening statistics every driver needs to know.

2018 Car Crash Data

• Roughly 400,000 people were injured in car crashes involving distracted drivers.
• 14% of police-reported crashes were related to distracted driving.
• 2,841 people were killed by distracted driving — this included 1,730 drivers, 605 passengers, 400 pedestrians, and 77 bicyclists.
• Reading or responding to a text message takes your eyes off the road for 5 seconds. At 55 MPH, it can simulate driving the entire length of a football field with your eyes closed.
• 8% of drivers between the ages of 15 and 19 years old involved in fatal crashes were reported as distracted. This age group was the largest proportion of drivers who were distracted at the time of fatal crashes.
• 516 non-occupants (pedestrians, bicyclists, and others) were killed in crashes due to distracted drivers.
• Drivers holding cell phones to their ears while driving increased from 2.9% in 2017 to 3.2% in 2018.
• Handheld cell phone use among drivers age 70 and older increased significantly from .08% in 2017 to 1.9% in 2018.

Data Source: NHTSA

Injured in a Car Accident? We Can Help.

Being involved in a car crash is a traumatic experience, and when it involves the actions of a distracted driver, it can be that much more devastating knowing it could have been prevented.

If you or a loved one has suffered injuries in a car accident, you have the right to seek justice. Our experienced personal injury attorneys know how insurance companies operate and offer unjust, low-ball settlements — but we’ll fight back to ensure you get the maximum compensation you deserve.

Contact Bandas Law Firm, P.C. today at (361) 238-2789 to learn how we can assist you.