New Study Finds that Distracted Driving is the Leading Cause of Fatalities in New Jersey

October 19, 2020

While most people are aware of the dangers of distracted driving, many do not realize the severity of the problem, especially in the state of New Jersey. In a recent study by NPR, they recognized that distracted driving is the highest cause of fatalities in all of New Jersey’s car accidents.

Top Contributors of Driver Fatalities in New Jersey

Distracted driving is the leading cause of fatal car accidents in New Jersey, with driving under the influence coming in as a close second. Speeding has decreased over the last few years and is now outranked by almost three times by the other two factors.

What is Distracted Driving?

Distracted driving includes the operation of a motor vehicle, while engaging in any other activity that takes away the driver’s attention. This might include:

• Changing the radio stations
• Eating or drinking while driving
• Communicating with backseat drivers
• Texting while driving

Although texting and driving gets the most attention, distracted driving can also include other habits that many drivers may not even realize are dangerous. Additionally, it is not just motorists that are subject to these risks. Pedestrians and motorcyclists are also at risk of distracted driving.

The Importance of Recognizing Distracted Driver Risks

The state of New Jersey and local insurance companies hope to increase awareness of distracted driving risks through studies like this and campaigns with insurance companies. No one plans to drive distracted and many recognize this bad habit when others are driving, but not themselves. Improving your safety and that of your passengers requires awareness of the problem and specific steps to improve your safety. You can avoid distracted driving with the following tips:

• Set-up hands-free on your phone: Fortunately, many phones and vehicle driver infotainment systems today have hands-free settings. These settings still allow you to answer phone calls and respond to text messages, without diverting your focus off the road ahead.
  Adjust your settings before getting on the road: If you have a long road trip ahead, consider finding your preferred radio station and seat settings before you hit the road. It can also be helpful to adjust your temperature settings ahead of time.
• Put your phone in a difficult to reach place: It can feel tempting to read, and respond to, a text when you hear that familiar ding. Place your phone in a hard-to-reach location to avoid the temptation.
• Pullover when completing tasks: While it might seem timesaving to eat your meal or do your makeup while driving, this can be dangerous. Pull off the road to complete these tasks.

Remember, you not only improve the safety of your passengers when you follow these steps, but you also set the standard for safe driving in your family.

Know Your Rights Following a Car Accident

If you were involved in a car accident where distracted driving is suspected, you may be eligible for compensation to help with your injuries. Reach out to an experienced personal injury lawyer today to explore your options today.

Contact a Rockaway Personal Injury Lawyer to Discuss Your Car Accident Case in New Jersey

Did you or a loved one sustain serious injuries due to a distracted driving accident in New Jersey? Don’t let the medical bills pile up while you wait for the negligent party or their insurance company to do the right thing. Right now, you need an aggressive personal injury attorney on your side, fighting to get you the compensation you need, want, and deserve. The skilled attorneys at Hoyt & Hoyt, PC represent clients injured because of a car accident in Roxbury, Rockaway, Morristown, Perth Amboy, and throughout New Jersey. Call (973) 292-2299 or fill out our online contact form to schedule a free consultation about your case. We have an office conveniently located at 67 East Park Place, 5th Floor, Morristown, NJ 07960, as well as an office in New Brunswick, NJ.

The articles on this blog are for informative purposes only and are no substitute for legal advice or an attorney-client relationship. If you are seeking legal advice, please contact our law firm directly.