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How distractions and cellphone use make you a dangerous driver

On Behalf of | Jan 24, 2018 | Blog |

You may think because you have a good driving history, you are among the safest motorists on the roads in New Orleans. Though your driving record is a good indicator of risk to your insurer, it does not necessarily reflect an accurate picture of how safe or risky of a driver you really are. 

Alcohol, medications, distractions, road conditions, traffic and motorist behavior are all factors that can affect your safety when you are in the driver’s seat. To better understand the dangers you face when you are driving, consider the following information on car accidents and how your actions can lead to injury and death. 

Cellphone use is dangerous while driving 

Not all motorists who use their cellphones while driving are texting. Some individuals are watching movies, videos and browsing on social media sites. Others are browsing the internet and looking through their phones for information. All of these actions require drivers to look away from the roads. They may also remove one or both hands from their steering wheels. When drivers face distractions from their cellphones and mobile devices, they drive slower and are much less aware of what is going on around them. They are also more likely to drive recklessly and have trouble staying in their lanes. 

Road and traffic conditions are dynamic 

Road and traffic conditions can change in an instant. Inebriated, impaired and distracted drivers are often overconfident in their driving skills and ignorant about how their actions impact everyone else’s safety. They do not believe they have anything to worry about because they have driven while distracted and intoxicated numerous times before without getting in major car accidents. 

It is important for you to understand that car accidents can happen anywhere and at any time. They do not always result in minor property damage. Car accidents usually cause serious injury and, in some cases, death. They are preventable. By staying attentive to the roads and using safe driving behaviors, you can reduce the chances of you being in one. You will have more time to react when hazardous conditions arise and can take corrective maneuvers to avoid collisions.