Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of car accidents, yet many drivers continue to engage in activities that take their attention away from the road. Whether texting, eating, adjusting the radio, or using GPS, distractions increase the likelihood of a crash.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), over 3,300 people lost their lives in distracted driving crashes in 2022. Many more suffered serious injuries.
In Virginia, distracted driving is a growing problem. With increasing smartphone usage and in-car technology, the risk of collisions caused by inattention is higher than ever. Our distracted driving car accident lawyer in Richmond understands the devastating impact of these accidents. The good news is that most distracted driving crashes are preventable.
By following key safety measures, drivers can significantly reduce their risk of causing harm to themselves and others.
Understanding Virginia’s Distracted Driving Laws
Virginia has taken steps to curb distracted driving by enforcing laws prohibiting certain behaviors behind the wheel. As of January 1, 2021, the state banned holding a handheld mobile device while driving. Under Code of Virginia § 46.2-818.2, driving while holding a phone or any other handheld device is illegal. Violations result in fines, and repeat offenses carry harsher penalties.
Drivers under 18 face even stricter restrictions. They are prohibited from using electronic devices while driving, including hands-free options. School bus drivers are also prohibited from using mobile devices behind the wheel.
Despite these laws, crashes related to distracted driving still occur daily. A distracted driving car accident attorney in Richmond regularly sees cases where inattention led to severe injuries. Drivers must take responsibility for their actions and implement safer driving habits.
Key Tips to Avoid Distractions While Driving
Remaining safe on the road and avoiding distracted driving is every driver’s responsibility. Some tips to help with this include:
1. Put Your Phone Away
One of the most effective ways to prevent distracted driving is to eliminate phone use. While hands-free technology is legal in Virginia, it can still be a distraction. Before starting your trip, silence your phone and place it out of reach.
Many smartphones have “Do Not Disturb While Driving” modes that automatically silence notifications and send auto-replies to messages.
2. Set Up Your GPS Before Driving
Many drivers rely on navigation systems to reach their destinations. However, programming a GPS while driving can be as dangerous as texting. Set up your route before you start driving, and if you need to make adjustments, pull over to a safe location. Using voice commands can also help reduce manual input while on the road.
3. Avoid Eating and Drinking
Eating and drinking may seem harmless, but they require taking at least one hand off the wheel. Spills and dropped food can also cause sudden reactions, leading to control loss. If you need to eat, do so before you start driving or pull over at a safe location.
4. Secure Passengers and Pets
Passengers, especially young children, can be a significant source of distraction. Ensure that kids are safely buckled in and provide them with anything they may need before you start driving. If a child requires attention on the road, pull over safely before assisting them.
Similarly, pets should be properly restrained to prevent them from moving around the vehicle and causing distractions.
5. Adjust Controls Before You Drive
Before hitting the road, take a few moments to adjust your seat, mirrors, climate controls, and audio system. Fiddling with buttons or screens while driving can distract you from the road for several seconds—long enough to cause a crash.
Many modern vehicles offer steering wheel controls or voice commands, which can be safer alternatives.
6. Stay Focused on the Road
Mental distractions can be just as dangerous as physical distractions. Daydreaming, thinking about work, or getting lost in deep thought can reduce reaction times. Staying engaged in driving requires being aware of your surroundings, anticipating other drivers’ actions, and keeping both hands on the wheel.
The Dangers of Multitasking Behind the Wheel
Many people believe they can multitask effectively, but studies show otherwise. According to the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), over 20% of crashes involve distracted driving. Even a momentary lapse in attention can have devastating consequences.
Texting while driving is particularly dangerous because it involves three types of distraction:
- Visual distraction (taking your eyes off the road)
- Manual distraction (removing your hands from the wheel)
- Cognitive distraction (losing focus on driving)
A Richmond accident attorney often represents clients severely injured in collisions caused by distracted drivers. The aftermath of these accidents can include extensive medical bills, lost wages, and long-term disabilities.
Proving liability in these accidents is often challenging. Because of this, working with our law firm is recommended.
What to Do If You’re Injured by a Distracted Driver
If you or a loved one has been involved in an accident caused by a distracted driver, seeking legal guidance is essential. A Richmond car accident lawyer can help you understand your rights and pursue compensation for your injuries. Steps to take after a crash include:
- Calling 911 and seeking immediate medical attention
- Collecting evidence, including photos and witness statements
- Obtaining a copy of the police report
- Contacting an attorney to discuss your legal options
Distracted driving is entirely preventable but requires a commitment to safe driving practices. By staying focused and eliminating unnecessary distractions, drivers can help make Virginia’s roads safer.
If you have been injured due to someone else’s negligence, consulting a distracted driving car accident attorney in Richmond can help you seek the justice you deserve.
