Distracted driving has become a significant concern on the roads today. As technology advances, so do the potential distractions for drivers. Below are common accidents caused by distracted driving and the injuries often resulting from these incidents.
Common accidents from distracted driving
When you do not focus on the road while driving, you could be involved in accidents, including:
Rear-end collisions
One of the most frequent accidents caused by distracted driving is rear-end collisions. When you are not paying attention to the road, you might not notice that the vehicle in front of you has slowed down or stopped. This could lead to a sudden impact, potentially causing a chain reaction if multiple vehicles are involved.
Lane departure accidents
Another common occurrence is when a distracted driver veers out of their lane. If the driver crosses into oncoming traffic, this could result in side-swipe accidents with vehicles in adjacent lanes or even head-on collisions.
Intersection crashes
Distracted drivers may fail to notice traffic signals or stop signs, leading to accidents at intersections. These crashes may be particularly dangerous as they often involve impacts at higher speeds and from multiple directions.
Injuries associated with distracted driving accidents
Accidents resulting from distracted driving could cause injuries that may have a severe impact on your life. These could include:
Whiplash
This is a common injury in rear-end collisions. The sudden impact may cause your head to jerk in opposite directions, straining the neck muscles and ligaments.
Traumatic brain injuries
In more severe crashes, you might experience head trauma. This could range from mild concussions to severe traumatic brain injuries, which could have long-lasting effects on cognitive function and quality of life.
Spinal cord injuries
The force of impact in a car accident could damage your spine, potentially resulting in partial or complete paralysis.
Fractures and soft tissue injuries
Broken bones and injuries to muscles, tendons and ligaments are also common in distracted driving accidents. These could occur in various parts of the body, depending on the nature of the crash.
Staying focused while driving is crucial to reduce the risk of these accidents and injuries. Consider seeking legal advice if you get involved in an accident caused by a distracted driver. An attorney could help you understand your rights and options.