How to Avoid Distracted Driving Accidents

Distracted driving during the holidays is inevitable. People are more distracted than usual with shopping and other holiday activities. Despite the fact that fewer distracted drivers may be out this year due to the pandemic, it is wise to reduce your risks. Even if you rein in your own tendency to be distracted, you still have other drivers who will not necessarily be doing the same.

Avoid Distracted Driving

While you cannot control what someone else does, you can control your own distractions. In fact, one thing you can do is keep your hands off your cell phone while driving. Over the holidays people are on the phone more than usual. Statistics show phone usage typically increases by a third compared with normal use. (reference: Gebco Insurance)

Hands-free driving is required by law in New York State, and therefore drivers may not use hand-held devices. The exceptions are when calling 911 for an emergency or when on duty and operating an emergency vehicle.

It’s a fact that the New York State police see cell phone use as being "particularly problematic." Moreover, their website says that driver inattention/distraction is the leading cause of property damage and personal injury accidents.

What Does NY Law Prohibit Drivers from Doing with Electronic Devices?

The following are illegal uses of electronic devices while driving in New York:

• Composing, sending, reading, accessing, browsing, transmitting, saving or retrieving electronic messages including email, text messages or webpages
• Viewing, taking or transmitting images
• Playing games

How Can You Identify a Distracted Driver?

Drivers who are not watching the road often swerve or do not use signals. This is particularly dangerous during winter months. Ice and snow already make it easier to lose control while driving.

Keep your eyes out for distracted drivers. Avoid them and maintain a greater distance from them.

Were You Seriously Injured by a Distracted Driver During the Holidays?

Our attorneys at Sackstein, Sackstein & Lee, LLP have decades of experience protecting victims’ rights in car accident cases. Arrange a free consultation to discuss your potential case.