In a fast-paced world full of distractions, staying focused behind the wheel is more important than ever. Unfortunately, our ever-increasing reliance on smartphones has turned distracted driving into one of the most common causes of car crashes today. Even a brief glance away from the road to check a text message or answer a phone call while driving can result in an entirely preventable tragedy. These distracted driving crashes occur far too frequently in Chicago.
Understanding how these collisions have become so prevalent, what causes them, and the steps you can take if you’ve been involved in a distracted driving crash can help protect both your safety and your legal rights.
Cell Phone Use and Driving Safety in Chicago
Chicago’s busy roadways make distracted driving much riskier,, yet that does not seem to deter many people from engaging in this dangerous behavior. According to the Illinois State Police, driver inattention is a factor in over 1 million crashes in North America every year. Driving while on a cell phone is estimated to raise your risk of getting into a crash by a shocking 400%.
The most alarming element of these statistics is that they are likely underestimated, as not everyone is willing to admit they were distracted by their cell phone when they caused a crash. Campaigns like Drop It and Drive are attempting to raise awareness about this pervasive issue, but the number of reported crashes involving cell phones continues to remain concerningly high.
Types of Distractions Caused by Cell Phones
Avoiding distractions while you drive begins with understanding all the different ways you can become distracted:
- Visual Distraction: Taking your eyes off the road to check a notification, look at your GPS, or change a song can significantly reduce your ability to recognize upcoming hazards and react in time.
- Manual Distraction: Taking one or both hands off the wheel to pick up a phone, type a text message, change the music volume, or use an app means you are not entirely in control of the vehicle, and a collision can happen at any moment.
- Cognitive Distraction: Even when your hands are on the wheel and your eyes are on the road, you are still at greater risk of a crash if your mind is elsewhere. That is why hands-free phone conversations are not necessarily safe.
All of these distractions slow your reaction time, which can be extremely dangerous and even deadly. Even a one-second delay can be the difference between braking in time and a life-changing tragedy.
Laws and Regulations Addressing Distracted Driving
As of 2019, using a handheld device while driving in Illinois is illegal. The law still allows drivers 19 and older to use hands-free technology, such as Bluetooth. However, it is essential to remember that cognitive distraction remains a significant danger on the road. Violating these laws can result in fines, points on your driver’s license, and increasing penalties for repeat offenses.
Contact a Nearby Car Accident Attorney Today
If you have suffered injuries in a collision caused by a distracted driver, you need a personal injury law firm that can protect your rights. Our experienced distracted driving accident attorneys at Salvi, Schostok & Pritchard P.C. are dedicated to seeking justice and fair compensation for our injured clients. Contact us today for your free, no-obligation consultation.
