Market research firm Wakefield Research conducted an online study on distracted driving, and nearly 2,000 drivers in Minnesota and across the U.S. contributed their responses to it. The results, some of them eye-opening, were shared recently by Root Insurance, which provides insurance discounts to drivers who avoid phone use.
Almost half of the respondents said that distracted driving is their top concern on the road, and 99% said that phone use is one of the most frequent distractions. Yet these same respondents admitting to using their phone behind the wheel for an average of 13 minutes every day. Nearly two in five drivers say they don’t feel compelled to put down their phones when police are around.
Not only that, but respondents were critical of others who exhibited the same behavior they do. About 89% claimed they would give bad ratings to ride-hailing drivers if they were caught texting and driving, and 39% even said they have done so. Approximately 90% considered themselves better drivers than ride-hailing employees.
The most common phone-related distractions were as follows: 52% admitted that group chats, including text and email chains, most often took their eyes from the road while 33% said the same for social media. This included things like newsfeeds and memes. Another 18% admitted to streaming videos behind the wheel.
Distracted drivers will be to blame for any car accidents they cause. Those who are injured may be eligible for compensation under personal injury law. In this state, plaintiffs can recover damages if their degree of fault is less than or even equal to that of the defendant. In their effort to ensure a strong case, victims may want a lawyer on their side. The lawyer may handle all negotiations, leaving litigation as a last resort.