4 Dangerous Distractions That Cause California Car Accidents

Distracted driving is an incredibly dangerous behavior that, according to a report from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), claimed 2,841 lives in 2018 alone and injured thousands more. However, the number is likely much higher considering many car accidents are the result of several causes including distracted driving, speeding, drunk driving, tailgating, and other factors. Regardless of the true number of injuries and fatalities, distracted driving is a large, pervasive problem even though California has outlawed contributing factors such as texting while driving. Unfortunately, texting is not the only source of distracted driving; many other causes are just as negligent and dangerous.

1. Smartphones

Texting is not the only source of distraction on modern smartphones – there are a multitude of distractions to take your attention away from the road. This can include activities such as putting your phone on a car charger, opening or closing applications, checking directions or a map on your phone, searching your contacts for a phone number, checking various social media sites, or even browsing the internet!

2. Electronic Controls in Your Car

Though safety features in vehicles have come a long way, auto manufacturers have continued to add more computerized, complicated controls. Large monitors in the center of the dashboard requiring one hand off the steering wheel to operate the features add to the risk by reducing control over the vehicle while simultaneously being distracted. Some common distracting features today are:

• Connecting a phone to the in-car Bluetooth
• Operating a vehicle’s built-in GPS system
• Searching for radio channels

3. Billboards, Signs, and Images Outside the Vehicle

It’s possible for drivers to become distracted by visual stimulation originating outside the vehicle – especially if they are unfamiliar with driving in urban areas containing colorful billboards and tourist attractions or landmarks. However, it’s important drivers keep their focus on the road without looking around and operate their vehicle safely.

4. Passengers

Though it may not seem like an obvious source of distraction, many car accidents happen due to passengers inside the vehicle. Teenagers especially may be inclined to turn their head away from the road if friends are in the passenger seat or backseat. Unfortunately for someone hit by a driver that has passengers in their vehicle, it’s incredibly difficult to prove their distraction caused the accident.

Contact a California Car Accident Attorney Now

If you were hurt in a car accident, it’s natural to want to know what caused the collision and how to use that knowledge to get the compensation you deserve. Proving your crash was caused by distracted driving can be a complex process and quite difficult, so it’s important you contact the skilled California Car Accident Attorneys at Daneshrad Law right away. We have extensive experience investigating complicated cases, and we use our knowledge and resources to build a team of experts, understand your needs, and build the strongest possible case. Attorney Alan Daneshrad has spent years providing comprehensive representation and delivering millions of dollars in compensation for clients’ injuries. Call us 24/7 at (888) 881-3529 to schedule a free initial case consultation. Let us evaluate your case and work hard to get you the best result possible.