If you're a passenger in a car and notice the driver is texting or otherwise distracted, would you say something?
Most people would speak up if the driver is a family member, friend or colleague. A survey by LeithCars.com found that 97.4 percent of people said they would confront a driver who is distracted. Fewer people will confront a driver in a taxi or rideshare.
The survey also examined the degree to which drivers became defensive after being told by a passenger they were engaging in risky behavior. Ride-hail or taxi drivers were the most defensive, followed by significant others, family members, co-workers and friends.
Attitudes about distracted driving
Distracted driving can be any type of behavior that diverts a driver's attention from the road. The survey asked people what they thought were the most dangerous types of distractions. Responses included:
- Using a cell phone
- Drinking and driving
- Falling asleep behind the wheel
- Reaching around for an item
Respondents in the survey had different attitudes about each behavior, depending on their age. Baby boomers, for example, viewed cellphone use behind the wheel as a riskier behavior than drinking and driving. The younger millennial generation, however, sees it the other way around: texting or surfing the web behind the wheel is not as dangerous as drinking and driving.
Distracted driving remains a widespread problem
Unfortunately, the problem of distracted driving - whether it's drinking, texting, chatting or fiddling with a car's entertainment system - continues to lead to serious car accidents. Alarmingly, the survey finds that rideshare and taxi drivers do engage in dangerous and distracted driving. Nearly 85 percent of those surveyed said they were a passenger in a rideshare or taxi where the driver was speeding, weaving through traffic or excessively talkative. Most people (about 60 percent, according to the survey) don't speak up when they notice this behavior. They almost always will address the problem if it's a family member, friend or colleague, however.
What to do if you're involved in a car accident involving a distracted driver
A crash involving a distracted driver can lead to serious injuries or even death. That's why it's critically important to speak up should you notice a driver is distracted or driving erratically. An accident can happen in a split second and turn your life completely upside down. Injuries from accidents can lead to costly medical bills. You may be unable to work. You may have to give up hobbies you enjoyed.
The insurance company may try to downplay the injuries. They may offer a quick lowball settlement or try to convince you that fighting for more money is not worth the hassle.
Don't let the insurance companies push you around. Tell them you mean business. Contact the Law Offices of Mark E. Salomone & Morelli. Our experienced attorneys know how to stand up to the insurance companies and maximize compensation for our clients.
Let us handle the details of your claim while you focus on your recovery. Contact us today for a free consultation.