How Can You Protect Yourself From Distracted Drivers?
Distracted driving is a growing problem among people of all ages. Each year, distracted drivers claim the lives of over 3,000 people in the United States.
Since distracted driving is such a widespread problem in the U.S., it is vital to attempt to protect yourself from drivers who become distracted while operating a motor vehicle.
No matter how careful you normally are while driving your car, you should try to take additional safety measures when you spot a distracted motorist. There are certain signs of distracted driving that you should be aware of when driving your vehicle in Manchester or other parts of New Hampshire.
If you have been involved in a car crash with a distracted driver, do not hesitate to contact an experienced attorney to help you seek the compensation to which you are entitled. Your attorney may be able to prove that the other driver was distracted to help you recover maximum damages.
Signs of Distracted Driving to Watch Out for
If you notice any of the following driving behaviors while operating your vehicle, stay away from that vehicle because its driver may not be paying attention to the road.
There are several signs of distracted driving to watch out for:
- Changes in speed for no reason
- Driving too slow or too fast
- Weaving in and out of lanes
- Being stopped at a traffic light or sign when they have the right of way
What Should I Do if I Spot a Distracted Motorist?
It is vital to stay aware of your surroundings at all times when operating a motor vehicle. Do not assume that other drivers are following traffic safety rules. Do not assume that other drivers are paying full attention to the road.
Instead, you should watch out for the above-mentioned signs of distracted driving and stay away from vehicles that exhibit these behaviors to avoid a collision.
If you spot a distracted motorist, do the following:
- Give that motorist plenty of space in the front and on the sides of their vehicle
- If a distracted driver is in front of you, increase the following distance (ideally, change lanes to avoid that vehicle altogether)
- Call the police to report a distracted driver (your call could potentially save other people’s lives)
- Do not attempt to confront a distracted motorist (it is never a good idea)
What to Do if I Was in a Distracted Driving Accident?
If you have been involved in a car accident caused by a distracted driver, it is vital to gather all available evidence to be able to prove that the other driver was not paying attention to the road.
Talk to witnesses, look for surveillance cameras or dash cameras that may have filmed the event, and contact an attorney to help you obtain records of the driver’s texting or phone calls at the time of the collision.
Proving that the other motorist was distracted can help you maximize your recoverable damages. Consult with a Manchester distracted driving accident attorney to discuss your particular case. Contact our attorneys at the Law Office of Manning Zimmerman & Oliveira PLLC for a free consultation.
Resource:
nhtsa.gov/risky-driving/distracted-driving
