Distracted driving is a serious problem nationwide and in New Hampshire. According to New Hampshire’s Office of Highway Safety, distracted driving and inattention were factors in 15 percent of all New Hampshire crashes in 2021. In addition, distracted driving was the leading cause of 42 fatal crashes between 2014 and 2020.
State officials believe the impact of distracted driving is more significant than statistics suggest. Drivers involved in crashes often hesitate to acknowledge that they were distracted, and investigators frequently cannot determine from the crash scene whether distraction played a role.
The truth is that every motorist is likely to have been distracted behind the wheel at some point or another. But these distractions are not worth the risk. The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that taking your eyes off the road for as little as 5 seconds at 55 mph equates to a driver traveling the length of a football with your eyes closed.
If you have been injured in what you believe to be a distracted driving accident in New Hampshire, contact the New Hampshire personal injury lawyers at Tenn And Tenn, P.A., as soon as possible. Call us today at 888-332-5855 or contact us online for a free consultation. We represent clients throughout New Hampshire, from Lancaster to Manchester.
Top 10 Forms of Distracted Driving in New Hampshire
Take a look at these ten common forms of distracted driving and how to avoid them.
#1. Cell Phone Use
While smartphones have become a fundamental part of our lives, they pose significant dangers in the car. Research shows that texting while driving increases the risk of crashing by 23 times. Even taking hands-free calls heightens the risk of a crash. Try to keep your phone out of reach or use apps that block notifications while driving.
#2. Adjusting Car Controls
Modern technology has made driving easier, more comfortable, and generally safer. However, adjusting controls while driving can be as distracting as using a smartphone. Rather than trying to adjust controls while in motion, set all the necessary controls before leaving your parking spot. If you need to make adjustments while in motion, use voice-activated controls, if available.
#3. Eating or Drinking
Eating or drinking while driving is a common but often overlooked distraction. Drivers who eat or drink are 1.57 times more likely to be involved in a crash. This figure includes handling food, unwrapping packages, or sipping drinks. Better to eat before driving or pull over for a snack.
#4. Unrestrained Pets
You may love taking your pet on the road, but unrestrained pets in vehicles can create dangerous conditions. Many pet owners admit to being distracted by their pets while driving, whether caressing them, giving them treats, or scolding them. Use a pet carrier or seat belts designed for animals to reduce distractions.
#5. Human Passengers
Human passengers, too, can be a major distraction. Safe driving requires significant mental effort and focus. Engaging in a heated conversation, turning to look at a passenger, or allowing yourself to be distracted by their antics can shift your attention and lead to a crash. Save heavy conversations for outside the vehicle and pull over if a rowdy passenger refuses to pipe down.
#6. Grooming Yourself
When running late, you may want to save time by grooming yourself while behind the wheel, but this habit can prove deadly. Fixing your hair, applying make-up, adjusting your tie, or shaving involves complex motor skills that take your eyes from the road and your hand from the wheel–yet many drivers engage in these activities anyway. To avoid the ugliness of a crash, beautify yourself before you leave home or when you arrive at your destination.
#7. External distractions
Who hasn’t rubbernecked an accident? Eyed a police car who has flagged another motorist? Gazed at a stunning landscape? These are normal reactions, but they can increase the risk of a crash. Although it’s tempting to pay attention to the goings-on outside the car, maintain your focus on the road.
#8. Reaching for Items
Reaching for objects while driving can increase the risk of a crash sevenfold, especially for teen drivers. If you drop an item, such as your phone, while driving, it is better to let it remain where it is until you can pull over.
#9. Being in Your Emotions
When your mind is fixed on things other than the road, you’re putting yourself and others in danger. Strong emotions can impair your judgment, delay reactions, and cause aggressive or unpredictable driving. If you’re feeling emotionally unfit to drive, take time to relax and compose yourself before hitting the road to ensure a safer driving experience.
#10. Fatigue
Driving while tired is one of the most dangerous driving conditions. Fatigue diminishes your reaction time, decision-making abilities, and alertness. Before hitting the road, avoid drinking alcohol or prescription meds that cause drowsiness and ensure that you’re well-rested. If you find yourself yawning or drifting between lanes, pull over and nap in a designated area. Remember that caffeine can offer brief, temporary relief but cannot replace proper rest.
A New Hampshire Personal Injury Attorney Can Help
If you’ve been injured in a distracted driving accident, you may be entitled to compensation. Call the experienced New Hampshire personal injury lawyers of Tenn And Tenn, P.A. We have helped countless injured New Hampshire residents fight for the compensation they deserve. We represent clients throughout the state, including Berlin, Lebanon, Plymouth, and Portsmouth. Contact us today at 888-332-5855 or online for your free evaluation.