When you are driving on New Jersey roads, you could be sharing space with a distracted driver at any given time. Despite the well-known dangers of distracted driving, drivers still engage in behaviors that are likely to take their attention from the task at hand. While individuals in every demographic could drive while distracted, there are some groups that may be more likely to do this than others. Distracted driving in any form is reckless, negligent and completely preventable.
According to statistics, the two most likely groups to drive while distracted are gig-economy workers and parents. Phone use is the most common source of distracted driving, including talking on the phone, texting, checking emails or using social media apps. Other reasons why a driver may be distracted include eating, drinking, talking with a passenger, adjusting the radio or even reading a roadside sign.
Risky behavior from New Jersey drivers
Gig workers and rideshare drivers are on the road frequently, and it may be easy to see how these individuals could be the most common distracted driving offenders. These types of employees may need their phones to accept jobs or communicate with clients, but it is likely their on-the-road phone use goes far beyond what is necessary for their work. Studies find that these drivers may be four times more likely to use smartphone apps while driving than other groups.
Another group of drivers that may be more likely to engage in distracted driving while behind the wheel is parents. Studies of driver behavior found that parents of children age 18 and younger are likely to engage in dangerous behaviors while behind the wheel. Specific examples include video calling and doing other things with their smartphones. This insight on driver behavior comes from a recent study that examined different types of distraction and their impacts.
Did a distracted driver cause your accident?
If you are the victim of an accident caused by a distracted driver, you do not have to navigate the aftermath alone. One of the options available to you may include a civil claim, a course of action that provides you the opportunity to seek recompense and financial recovery of your accident-related losses. Through the New Jersey civil justice system, you may be able to seek justice and hold responsible parties accountable for the negligent or reckless actions that caused you harm.
