As experienced Ohio car accident attorneys, the team at Tittle & Perlmuter has seen the devastating consequences of distracted driving. In the blink of an eye, a momentary lapse in attention behind the wheel can change lives forever. While many think, “It will never happen to me,” the unfortunate reality is that distracted driving accidents are all too common on Ohio’s roads and highways.
Distracted driving claimed over 3,000 lives in 2024, according to the NHTSA. And for every fatal crash, many more cause injuries ranging from minor to catastrophic. To help Ohio drivers stay safe, alert, and focused on the critical task of driving, we’ve compiled this list of five of the most common driving distractions.
1. Smartphones and Texting
Without a doubt, cell phones are the most common distractions while driving. We are glued to our phones nearly 24/7 these days. But when you are operating a vehicle, it is imperative that you put the phone down.
Texting is especially dangerous. Sending or reading a text takes your eyes off the road for an average of five seconds. At 55 mph, that is like driving an entire soccer field with your eyes closed. No text is worth that level of risk.
What you can do:
- Silence notifications or switch your phone to “Do Not Disturb” mode while driving
- Pull over if you absolutely must send a message or make a call
- Ask a passenger to handle phone tasks for you
- Install an app that blocks notifications while your car is in motion
2. Other Electronics
In-vehicle “infotainment” systems are more advanced than ever. With large touch screens, navigation, music streaming, and even web browsing, they provide no shortage of distractions. Even the car’s dashboard with its myriad lights, gauges, and displays can take a driver’s eyes off the road if they are not careful.
Additionally, many people use GPS devices, tablets, smartwatches, or other electronic devices when driving. Any of these can become a dangerous distraction if used at the wrong time.
Tips to minimize electronic distractions:
- Familiarize yourself with your car’s systems and controls so you can operate them without looking when possible
- Program your GPS and queue up your music or podcast before you start driving
- Ask passengers to assist with navigation and entertainment systems
- If you must engage with a device, wait for a stoplight or pullover
3. Passengers and Pets
For many, driving is a social activity – heading out with family or friends, carpooling, or taking a road trip. But talkative, rowdy, or misbehaving passengers may lead to a distracted driving accident.
Turning to look at a passenger, getting drawn into an animated discussion, or mediating an argument between kids in the backseat all force you to take your attention off driving.
Unrestrained pets are another serious problem. A loose dog or cat can get underfoot, interfere with controlling the vehicle, or even jump into the driver’s lap.
What to do:
- Insist that everyone buckles up and secure children in proper safety seats
- Pullover to deal with misbehavior, arguments, or other passenger disruptions
- Remind adult passengers of the importance of allowing you to concentrate on driving
- Always secure pets in a crate or restrained with a harness tethered to the seat belt
4. Grooming and Eating
Many of us live life on the go and spend a lot of time in our vehicles. It is all too tempting to use that time to multitask. But activities like eating, drinking, applying makeup, fixing your hair, or even changing clothes while driving are common types of driving distractions.
Anything that takes a hand off the wheel and your eyes off the road impairs your ability to drive safely and react to sudden hazards. Coffee and other drinks are frequently a factor in crashes when reaching for them, a spill, or a dropped cup causes the driver to lose control.
Remember:
- Finish your morning grooming routine before you get in the car
- If you did not have time for breakfast, grab something portable like a granola bar that you can eat in a few quick bites at stoplights
- For longer trips, take a break to stretch, use the restroom, have a snack and refresh yourself before continuing on
5. Mental Distractions
Not all distractions are physical things. Mental distractions can be every bit as dangerous. Daydreaming, worrying, rehashing an argument, road rage, or just getting “lost in thought” are common driving distractions and can lead to accidents by taking your focus off the act of driving.
Fatigue is another major problem. Driving while drowsy has been shown to impair reaction times and decision-making ability as much as driving drunk. Drifting off for even a few seconds can have deadly consequences.
Tips to stay mentally sharp:
- Get plenty of sleep before driving and take breaks to stretch and wake yourself up on long trips
- If you have a lot on your mind, take a few minutes to collect your thoughts before getting behind the wheel
- Use deep breathing or other relaxation techniques if you find yourself getting emotional or frustrated by traffic
- If you find your mind wandering frequently, try playing music or an engaging podcast to help you stay alert and focused
Injured by a Distracted Driver? We Can Help.
If you have been injured in an accident caused by someone else’s distracted driving, the dedicated legal team at Tittle & Perlmuter is here for you. We have extensive experience handling all types of motor vehicle accident claims throughout Ohio.
Our knowledgeable car accident attorneys will thoroughly investigate your crash, gather evidence, interview witnesses, and build a strong case to hold the distracted driver accountable. We will explore every potential avenue to get you full and fair compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
To learn more about how we can help with your distracted driving accident claim, contact us today for a free consultation. We have offices conveniently located in Cleveland, Chardon, and several other locations throughout Ohio.
