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ToggleIn the blink of an eye, a life can change forever. One moment of distraction behind the wheel—a glance at a phone, fiddling with the radio, or reaching for a dropped item—can have devastating consequences. At Altman Nussbaum Shunnarah, we have seen the profound impact distracted driving accidents can have on victims and their families in Andover and surrounding communities. In this article, we will explore the prevalence of these preventable tragedies and what can be done to make our roads safer for everyone.
The Distracted Driving Epidemic
Distracted driving has become a pervasive problem on roads across the country, and Andover is no exception. According to data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), about 3000 people lost their lives due to distracted driving in 2022 alone. This staggering figure underscores the urgent need for action to combat this dangerous behavior.
In Andover, distracted driving accidents are an all-too-common occurrence. The Massachusetts Department of Transportation reports that distracted driving was a contributing factor in nearly 10% of all crashes in the state in 2021. These accidents can result in serious injuries, property damage, and, tragically, loss of life.
Types of Distracted Driving
There are three main types of distracted driving:
- Visual distractions: These occur when drivers take their eyes off the road, such as looking at a phone or GPS device.
- Manual distractions: These involve taking hands off the wheel, like reaching for an object or adjusting controls.
- Cognitive distractions: Such kinds of crashes happen when a driver’s mind drifts from the task of driving, perhaps due to daydreaming or a conversation with a passenger.
Texting while driving is particularly dangerous because it combines all three types of distraction. Sending or reading a text message takes a driver’s eyes off the road, even for a few seconds, and is enough to cause a devastating crash with serious consequences.
The Consequences of Distracted Driving Accidents
Getting involved in a distracted driving crash can leave you with serious issues:
- Victims may suffer severe injuries such as traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, broken bones, and lacerations.
- These injuries can lead to extensive medical treatment, costly rehabilitation, and lost wages due to an inability to work.
- In the most tragic cases, distracted driving accidents can be fatal, leaving families to grieve the sudden and preventable loss of a loved one.
- Families often struggle with emotional trauma and financial hardship in the aftermath of a fatal accident.
Holding Distracted Drivers Accountable
If you have been injured in a distracted driving accident, it is crucial to seek the guidance of an experienced personal injury attorney. At Altman Nussbaum Shunnarah, we are dedicated to fighting for the rights of accident victims and holding distracted drivers accountable for their actions.
Our skilled legal team will thoroughly look into the issues surrounding your accident, collect crucial evidence, and develop a solid case on your behalf. We will work tirelessly to secure the compensation you deserve for your medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
Preventing Distracted Driving Accidents
While our firm is committed to helping accident victims seek justice, we also believe in the power of prevention. By raising awareness about the dangers of distracted driving and promoting safe driving habits, we can work together to reduce the number of these tragic accidents on Andover’s roads.
Here are some tips for avoiding distractions while driving:
- Put your phone on silent or “do not disturb” mode and store it out of reach.
- Set your GPS, radio, or other controls before you start driving.
- Pull over safely if you need to send a text, make a call, or attend to another task.
- Speak up if you are a passenger and notice the driver becoming distracted. Offer to assist with tasks or suggest pulling over.
Partnering for a Safer Future
are committed to being a partner in creating safer roads for everyone in Andover and beyond. Through our legal advocacy for accident victims and our efforts to educate the public about the dangers of distracted driving, we strive to make a positive impact in our community.
If you or someone you love has been affected by a distracted driving accident, know that you are not alone. Our compassionate legal team is here to guide you through this challenging time and fight for the justice and compensation you deserve. Together, we can work towards a future where distracted driving accidents are a thing of the past. Get in touch with us today to talk to our dedicated team.