Distracted Driving Pledge Aims at Increasing Awareness, Reducing Injuries

Every year, distracted driving causes thousands of accidents that result in thousands of deaths and hundreds of thousands of injuries. In recent years, the advent of smartphones, GPS systems and other technological advancements have significantly increased the number of distraction-related accidents. Both public and private agencies have taken notice, declaring April “Distracted Driving Awareness Month” and calling on drivers and passengers of all ages to pledge to end distracted driving.

The increased awareness of the dangers of distracted driving came to light in the wake of alarming statistics resulting from government and private studies that showed the devastating effects of distracted driving. Data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) indicate that in 2009, distracted driving resulted in 5,474 deaths and nearly half a million injuries. A whopping 16% of fatal crashes that year were associated with distracted driving. The NHTSA also reports that teen drivers are more likely than other age groups to be involved in distracted driving-related accidents. In fact, a separate study by the Pew Research Center revealed that 40% of all teens in the U.S. report having been in a car when the driver used a cell phone in a manner that could have been dangerous.

To increase public awareness about the dangers of distracted driving at www.distracted.gov, a partnership between government and private agencies has developed a pledge, and schools and communities across the country are taking it. The pledge reads:

Distracted driving kills and injures thousands of people each year.

I pledge to:
– Protect lives by never texting or talking on the phone while driving.
– Be a good passenger and speak out if the driver in my car is distracted
– Encourage my friends and family to drive phone-free.

Injuries and fatalities from crashes associated with distracted driving affect thousands of families every year, and the emotional, physical and actual costs associated with them can be considerable. In cases where distracted driving or other negligence is involved, crash victims and their families may be able to receive compensation to help reduce the cost burden of their injury or disability, but navigating the maze of paperwork needed to obtain compensation can be daunting, especially when emotions are involved. Contacting a law firm experienced in accident cases is imperative for anyone who has experienced an injury or other loss as the result of a traffic accident.

We at the law firm of Schwebel, Goetz & Sieben are leaders in helping crash victims and their families get the compensation they deserve to help defray medical costs, loss of work and other expenses arising from an automobile accident. We help crash victims get through the difficult times that follow an automobile accident. When it comes to recouping losses associated with an accident, time matters; individuals affected by car accidents should contact the Minnesota attorneys of Schwebel, Goetz & Sieben as soon as possible to ensure their case is handled in the most effective and successful way possible. Call us at 612-377-7777 or 1-800-752-4265 (toll free) for a free consultation.