Women drivers have long been a target of sexist comedians, but they may actually have a legitimate gripe according to the AAA Foundation for Safety. A recent study focusing on the driving habits of newly licensed, unsupervised drivers has found an alarming discrepancy between the sexes when it comes to distracted driving. According to AAA, girls are twice as likely as boys to take their attention off the road to use their cellphone or engage in other distracting activities.
As a Dallas-Fort Worth personal injury lawyer, I understand better than anyone the very real danger that distracted driver pose both to themselves and to the safety of all other road users. According to the NHTSA, distracted driving played a central role in more than 3,000 traffic fatalities last year.
Within the past year, the subject has become a political hot potato, both locally and on a national level. Last year, the Texas senate approved legislation which would restrict cell phone use by motorists, only for Governor Rick Perry to veto it at the last moment. That didn’t stop Arlington city council for stepping up with their own city-wide ban on sending and receiving text messages while driving. Earlier this week, Chapell Hill in North Carolina became the first city in America to introduce a complete ban on using cell phones while in the driver’s seat.
Cellphone use is far from the only cause of distracted driving of course. The AAA study also highlighted such distractions as adjusting controls, personal grooming and eating and drinking. In North Texas, I know other common forms of distracted driving also include smoking, riding with a loose animal and even reading.
If you have been injured in a car wreck caused by a distracted driver, it’s a good idea to speak with a Fort Worth personal injury attorney as soon as possible. For a free, no obligation consultation, call me today at 817-294-1900.
