According to the results of an annual study released last month by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, the number of automobile accidents caused directly by reckless driving habits is on the rise.
A shocking 87 percent of the of the nearly 2,500 drivers who participated in the survey admitted to their own unsafe driving behavior, revealing that they had done something risky while at the wheel at least once in the 30 days preceding the survey.
Mobile technology is partially responsible for much of the reckless driving habits over the last few years, with almost 75 percent of drivers admitting to talking regularly on the phone while driving.
Almost half of those surveyed said they had also read a text message or email while behind the wheel.
Other research on distracted driving indicates that drivers who take their eyes off the road for longer than two seconds double their chances of being involved in a car accident.
But mobile technology isn’t solely to blame for the recent increase in reckless driving accidents. Speeding still ranks high on the list of potential causes as well.
A driver who knowingly exceeds the speed limit is also decreasing the amount of time needed to safely respond to incidents on the road ahead of them.
This decrease in reaction time often leads to accidents that would have otherwise been avoidable. Accidents involving cars traveling at high, unsafe speeds also tend to result in more serious injuries or death.
Other reckless driving habits include:
- Knowingly running red lights
- Choosing not to wear a seatbelt
- Driving while fatigued
- Driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol
With these behaviors steadily on the rise, more and more motorists are at risk of being involved in an automobile accident. At Schmidt Kramer, we have seen firsthand the incredible damage that distracted drivers can cause.
If you are seeking assistance with pursuing compensation for an accident that affected you or a loved one, the experienced attorneys of Schmidt Kramer are here for you.
Call (717) 888-8888 or fill out our FREE Case Review Form