Distracted Driving: Defining and Examining the Problem

As smartphones have become more prevalent, so has the term “distracted driving.” Distracted driving is an umbrella term that covers anything that takes your attention away from driving, even for a moment. Distracted driving poses a significant threat to road safety, causing countless car accidents. By staying focused on the road and avoiding distractions, drivers can help create safer conditions for everyone. 

What Is Distracted Driving?

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) defines distracted driving as “any activity that diverts attention from driving,” including eating, adjusting music and navigation, and interacting with passengers. 

According to the NHTSA, distractions are classified into three types:

1. Visual: Taking your eyes off the road.
2. Manual: Taking your hands off the wheel.
3. Cognitive: Taking your mind off driving.

Even glancing at a billboard or putting on sunglasses counts. Some distractions combine all three, like texting and scrolling social media, making them particularly hazardous.

How Common Is Distracted Driving?

Distracted driving remains a significant issue. In 2022, the Insurance Information Institute estimates that distracted driving accounted for the following:

• 8% of all fatal crashes;
• 12% of crashes involving injuries; and
• 11% of all motor vehicle crashes reported to law enforcement.

Many believe the impact of distracted driving is much higher, as many incidents go unreported or unnoticed. The prevalence and consequences of distracted driving highlight the urgent need for prevention.

Chris O’Brien

Chris O’Brien is a nationally recognized personal injury attorney with over 30 years of experience fighting for accident victims in Western New York. A founding partner at O’Brien & Ford, he has helped recover millions for clients and built a reputation as a top trial lawyer and educator. Chris is a Diplomate of the National College of Advocacy, a member of the Million Dollar Advocates Forum, and was named one of Western New York’s Top Ten Lawyers by Buffalo Business First. He lives in Amherst with his family and their Bernedoodle, Moose.

Years of experience: 33 years
Practice areas: Personal Injury Law, Car Accidents
Location: Buffalo, New York

Why Is Distracted Driving Dangerous?

Distractions significantly reduce reaction time and situational awareness. Scientific studies show that switching between tasks increases cognitive load, impairing decision-making and focus. For example, sending or reading a text takes your eyes off the road for about five seconds. At 55 MPH, that’s like driving the length of a football field blindfolded. 

Does New York Have Laws Against Distracted Driving?

New York State enforces strict laws to curb distracted driving. Using portable electronic devices while driving is prohibited, except in emergencies, such as calling 911. Illicit activities include:

• Talking on a handheld mobile phone.
• Sending or reading texts, emails, or webpages.
• Viewing or sharing images or videos.
• Playing games.

Violations can result in fines and even license suspension.

What Are the Penalties for Distracted Driving in New York

New York takes distracted driving seriously. Penalties for violating the statute include fines ranging from $50 to $450 and five points added to your driving record. Accumulating 11 points within 18 months may lead to license suspension.

New York also has a lower threshold for drivers under 18. Junior drivers face a 120-day suspension for a first offense and at least a one-year revocation for a second offense.

If distracted driving leads to other consequences, such as accidents or reckless driving, you could be charged under related statutes and face penalties like fines, imprisonment, or further license restrictions, depending on the severity and circumstances.

What Are the Consequences of Distracted Driving?

The economic and societal costs of distracted driving are staggering. Out of the $340 billion in annual economic costs from motor vehicle crashes in the U.S., $98 billion stems from distracted driving incidents. This includes:

• Lost productivity.
• Legal and court costs.
• Medical expenses and emergency services.
• Property damage.
• Insurance administration costs.
• Traffic congestion impacts.

Non-economic damages, like pain and suffering from serious injury or death, add another $395 billion in societal harm. Even minor accidents can have huge price tags, so it is best to speak to an experienced attorney after any incident. 

How Can I Prevent Distracted Driving?

Preventing distracted driving requires proactive measures, such as:

• Pulling over to eat, make a call, or handle other distractions;
• Planning ahead to minimize distractions, like adjusting vehicle settings before driving and
• Never drive while drowsy.

As a parent or role model, leading by example promotes safer driving in teens.

What Should I Do After an Accident Involving a Distracted Driver?

After a car accident, you should take the following steps:

1. Check for injuries and call 911 if necessary.
2. Move to a safe location.
3. Exchange information with the other driver (name, insurance, license details).
4. Document the scene with photos and gather witness contact information.
5. File a police report and notify your insurance provider.
6. Seek medical attention, even for minor symptoms.

If distracted driving is suspected, document any evidence or observations. An attorney can help you build a case, even without direct proof of distraction.

How Can I Get More Information If I’ve Been Affected by Distracted Driving?

As the fight for our attention increases, one thing is clear: that demand will continue. We have to take steps to fix distracted driving by defining and examining the problem. For more information, please contact O’Brien & Ford Buffalo Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers. We offer a free consultation with a Buffalo personal injury lawyer. 

Contact The Buffalo Personal Injury Lawyers At O’Brien & Ford Buffalo Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers For Help Today 

A Buffalo car accident lawyer can help you calculate your damages so that you recover all that you are entitled to recover. More importantly, they can fight to hold the defendant liable on your behalf. You shouldn’t have to live with the emotional consequences of PTSD after a car accident without any financial help.

For more information, please contact the Buffalo car accident lawyers at O’Brien & Ford Buffalo Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers to schedule a free consultation with an accident lawyer. We have a convenient office location in Buffalo, NY.

We proudly serve all throughout Erie County and the state of New York.

O’Brien & Ford Buffalo Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers
4549 Main St, Suite 201
Buffalo, New York, 14226
(716) 222-2222
Best Law Firm of America