Distracted driving is a major hazard on South Carolina roadways. In 2015, nearly 3,500 people were killed due to distracted driving, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Considering the increasing popularity of smartphone use, the problem could be getting worse.
While distracted driving leads to a large number of deaths, the vast majority of victims escape with injuries. Approximately 391,000 people were injured in 2015 crashes related to distracted driving. Texting while driving is perhaps the most infamous form of distracted driving because its effects can be so severe. When a driver going 55 miles per hour pulls their eyes from the road to text for five seconds, they will drive the length of a football field. On far too many occasions, that distracted period can end in a severe crash.
Of course, not all distracted driving involves electronics. Activities like eating or applying makeup while driving can also divert a driver’s attention from the roadway. Even built-in auto electronics like radio dials or touchscreen entertainment systems can take focus away from road safety.
The costs of distracted driving can be far more severe than a ticket or points on one’s license. People who have been injured in car accidents due to another’s distracted, dangerous or negligent driving can rack up medical bills and be unable to go to work. A personal injury lawyer can help victims of accidents seek compensation for the damages they have suffered. Compensation may cover medical bills, lost wages and pain and suffering.