Distracted driving continues to be a threat to other motorists, bicyclists and pedestrians that might be on or near a roadway. As technology continues to expand, the chances of distracted driving increase.  Driving a motor vehicle in Rhode Island requires three different brain functions. Drivers need simultaneous visual, manual and cognitive processes. If any single one of those is transferred to the performance of another task, the odds of a crash increase significantly. If all of those processes are distracted, a catastrophic event can unfold. Common behavior involving distracted driving consists of:

• Texting or cell phone use
• Using a navigational device
• Reading
• Eating or drinking
• Personal grooming

Cell Phones

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than eight people are killed every day on American roads from distracted driving. Another 1,161 are injured. As per the statistics provided by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, about 3,179 people killed in 2014, and another 431,000 were injured.  Teens About 10 percent of all drivers involved in fatal distracted driving crashes were between the ages of 15 and 19-years-old. That age group segment has the highest percentage of drivers who were believed to be distracted when they crashed. Cell phone use Talking on cell phones accounted for 38 percent of all distracted driving accidents. During daylight hours, at least 2.2 percent of all drivers were visibly using cell phone devices. It’s highly likely that this percentage is on the low end of those actually using them while operating a motor vehicle.

Liability for Rhode Island distracted driving accident

It’s estimated that during daylight and sunset, about 660,000 Americans are using cell phone devices in one way or another while driving. This estimate is probably low too. When a driver causes a distracted driving accident, and somebody is injured, the distracted driver can be held liable for damages. Those damages can include but not be limited to:

• Past and future medical bills
• Past and future lost earnings
• Pain and suffering
• Any permanent disfigurement
• Any permanent disability

Irresponsible motorists

Distracted driving in RI is irresponsible driving. It can’t be tolerated. Not only does it endanger the distracted driver, but it endangers everybody around that driver too. If you or somebody close to you has been injured in a motor vehicle collision involving a distracted driver, contact a knowledgeable and experienced Rhode Island personal injury attorney right away. Victims have the right to fair and just compensation for injuries caused by the negligence of somebody else.

• “In 2019, distracted driving was a reported factor in 8.5% of fatal motor vehicle crashes. (NHTSA)
• In the U.S, distracted driving claimed the lives of 3,477 people and injured another 391,000 in 2015. (NHTSA)
• 42% of high school students across the United States admitted that they text or email while driving. (TeenDriversSource)
• Roughly 20% of injuries occurring in car accident crashes involve distracted driving. (NHTSA)
• Distracted driving accounted for 27% of all crashes in 2015. (ENDDD)
• Distracted driving claims eight lives per day — approximately 3,500 per year (CDC).” The Zebra

1. Global Impact: Distracted driving is a global issue, affecting various countries and regions. Different areas may have distinct statistics and regulations regarding distracted driving.
2. Contributing Factors: Common distractions while driving include texting or using a mobile phone, eating, adjusting the radio or GPS, talking to passengers, and other activities that divert attention from the road.
3. Mobile Phone Use: Mobile phone use is a leading cause of distracted driving accidents. Texting while driving is particularly dangerous, as it involves visual, manual, and cognitive distractions simultaneously.
4. Pedestrian Safety: Distracted driving poses a significant threat to pedestrians. Inattentive drivers may not see pedestrians in crosswalks or fail to react promptly to changing traffic conditions, leading to accidents.
5. Motorist Safety: Distracted driving not only endangers pedestrians but also poses risks to other motorists. Collisions resulting from distractions can lead to injuries and fatalities.
6. Fatalities and Injuries: Accidents caused by distracted driving contribute to a significant number of fatalities and injuries each year. The severity of these incidents varies, but many are preventable through increased awareness and responsible driving behavior.
7. Legislation and Enforcement: Many countries and regions have implemented legislation to address distracted driving. This includes penalties for using mobile phones or engaging in other distracting activities while driving. However, enforcement levels can vary.
8. Awareness Campaigns: Governments, non-profit organizations, and advocacy groups often run awareness campaigns to educate the public about the dangers of distracted driving. These campaigns aim to change behaviors and reduce the incidence of distracted driving.

It’s crucial to consult the most recent and localized sources for the latest statistics and developments on distracted driving, as the situation can change over time. Additionally, advancements in technology and changes in regulations may impact the prevalence of distracted driving.