The experienced car accident attorneys of Passen & Powell have frequently written about the dangers of distracted driving. Now, a new video series from the National Safety Council, based here in Illinois, aims to fight this problem with honest, straight-talk discussion of the risks.
See chart from The University of North Carolina Highway Safety Research Center addressing the types of distractions facing drivers.
Understanding Distracted Driving
The new series, titled “Understanding Distracted Driving,” is made up of a series of individual videos featuring NSC Senior Director of Transportation Initiatives, David Teater. But Teater is far more than just a talking head.
To the contrary, Teater knows only too well the true personal costs of distracted driving. Teater’s 12-year-old son was killed by a distracted driver in a tragic car crash.
In others, he answers typical questions about distracted driving, provides analysis on how cell phones can cause cognitive distractions, even when used hands-free, and provides advice on how companies can reduce the dangers of distracted driving for their employees.
There are a number of laws in place in Chicago and statewide which prohibit or limit distracted driving. Drivers are banned from using cell phones while driving in the city, for example. Likewise, throughout the state, cell phone use is banned in school zones and construction zones. Texting while driving is also banned, under any circumstances, statewide. And school bus drivers, as well as drivers under 19 years of age, may not use cell phones while driving.
But the reality is far more complex. Those who live or work in Chicago know that the law prohibiting cell phone use is honored more in the breach than in the observance. This is often the case as to the cell phone restrictions statewide, as well.
The true reality is that, while many now know of accidents caused by distracted driving, they do not believe it can happen to them. We urge all drivers to view the Understanding Distracted Driving video series and to take its messages to heart.
We likewise urge those injured by distracted drivers to take action against the negligent drivers responsible for their injuries. While public awareness campaigns have failed, perhaps the risk of civil liability will succeed to deter drivers from these dangerous behaviors.
If you have any questions about a motor vehicle accident, please give us a call us at 312-527-4500 or email us at info@passenlaw.com for a complimentary consultation. You can also learn more by following us on Twitter, reviewing our LinkedIn or Avvo.com pages, and by reviewing our website.