Multitasking A Distracted Driving Danger in Omaha, Attorneys Discuss

You may have seen it or perhaps done it yourself. You’re driving and hear a notification alert on your phone, so you quickly check. No big deal, right? Wrong. The moment it takes to check is enough time for a car crash that can leave you seriously hurt.

Many drivers are likely to engage in distracted driving at some point. But the common assumption is that distracted driving crashes only happen to other people.

Some drivers don’t think it’s a big deal and that multitasking behind the wheel is perfectly safe. While driving, they may:

• Send a quick text
• Check in with social media
• Make a phone call
• Eat or drink

Why multitasking is so dangerous

While many drivers may be confident in their ability to multitask while driving, doing so successfully is impossible, according to a study conducted by the University of Utah.

Researchers compiled tests and survey answers from 310 undergraduate psychology students to determine:

• Multitasking ability
• Perceived multitasking ability
• Use of cell phones while driving
• Use of various electronic media while driving
• Driver impulsivity

The study found that 70 percent of participants had an unrealistic perception of their ability to multitask. Those who demonstrated an actual ability to multitask were less likely to engage in it. The real contributing factor to multitasking while driving is an inability to refrain from distractions.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, distracted driving was responsible for 3,450 traffic deaths in 2016, and 391,000 injuries in 2015. An estimated 481,000 drivers use handheld devices behind the wheel during daylight hours.

Injured in a crash with a distracted driver?

If you were involved in an auto accident with a distracted driver, it’s important that your rights are upheld. You may have sustained injuries that require immediate medical attention. The cost of medical procedures can add up and you may miss time from work while you recover.

In order to be compensated for your losses, you will need to file an auto accident claim. However, proceeding with a claim after a distracted driving accident can be a complex process.

Proving that a driver was distracted can often be difficult. That’s why we investigate your accident. For example, negligent drivers may have left digital clues, such as texts and social media posts.

That’s where the attorneys at Ausman Law Firm, P.C., L.L.O. come in. Our experienced legal team will interview witnesses and examine evidence gathered at the crash scene – which can be used to help you build a strong case for compensation. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help.