If you focus on anything other than road conditions while traveling in Minnesota or elsewhere, you may be driving while distracted. Distracted driving may significantly increase your risk of getting into an accident resulting in property damage, injury or death. However, there are a few steps that you can take to minimize the risk of splitting your focus while behind the wheel.
Think of your loved ones
You may not think much about other drivers on the road simply because you don’t have a personal relationship with them. However, if you knew that the driver in the next lane was a parent or sibling, you have an incentive to put the phone down and pay attention to what’s going on around you. Treating everyone on the road the same way you would those you care about is a good idea.
Teach new drivers early
Parents can teach their teen drivers to avoid distracted driving. For instance, they can make sure to avoid using a phone, eating or engaging in other acts that might take their focus off of the road and increase the risk of a motor vehicle accident. They may also mandate that their kids sign contracts agreeing not to drive while distracted.
Enforcement matters
There is no guarantee that simple mind games will be enough to convince drivers to change their habits. Research suggests that motorists don’t necessarily perceive themselves as a threat when using their phones while driving. Therefore, some believe that greater enforcement of distracted driving laws may also help reduce instances of distracted driving. This may include the use of cameras as a tool to catch motorists using their phones while driving.
If you are involved in an accident caused by a distracted driver, you may have grounds for legal action. Witness statements and cellphone records may be used to show that the defendant was negligent in allowing an accident to occur.