Distracted driving has become a major issue on the roadways of Virginia in recent years. A study conducted by the Virginia Tech Transportation Institute shows that 80 percent of all crashes and 65 percent of near-crashes are the result of a driver’s inattention within three seconds of the accident occurring.
Officials and many organizations in the state are working to keep inattentive drivers off the road through several different campaigns and events. The Norfolk car accident attorneys at Lowell Stanley Injury Lawyers points out that one of those programs uses roadside “monsters” to persuade motorists to put the phone down.
The massive creatures were constructed using traffic barrels, cones, and other equipment typically found at a roadside construction site. The “monsters” are then placed next to the road as a reminder to drivers not to talk on the phone or text while traveling.
The Commonwealth of Virginia has also declared April as Distracted Driving Awareness Month. As part of the campaign, the organization Drive Smart Virginia is asking motorists to sign a pledge promising not to drive distracted.
The Norfolk personal injury lawyers with Lowell Stanley Injury Lawyers remind Virginians there are other ways you can prevent yourself from becoming a distracted driver, including:
- Make a Plan– Create a schedule that allows you enough time to get where you’re going without needing to multitask behind the wheel. Also, know the route you plan to travel to your destination before the vehicle moves.
- Concentrate– Eliminate the most obvious distractions—like cellphones, food, drink, or music—before driving. Once the car is in motion, be sure to focus on the road rather than your surroundings.
- Pull Over– If you must take a phone call, email, or text, be sure to pull over at the next safe location before doing so.
We hope these tips help to keep you and your loved ones safe.
