Tips for Avoiding Distracted Driving in New Jersey

At any given moment, there are a great many cars on the road. Some of those cars will be operated by drivers who have become complacent behind the wheel. Aside from driving, many motorists are texting, eating, listening to music, or engaging with passengers in their vehicle. Trying to multitask while driving has led to countless accidents and many injuries and deaths on the road. These distracted driving accidents can happen anytime, whether in heavy commuter traffic or during the late night hours.

What Constitutes Distracted Driving in NJ?

When people think of “distracted driving,” they tend to think about texting and driving. This is because cell phone use constitutes a large chunk of distracted driving-related car accidents, but they are not the only culprit. In addition to talking or texting on your cell phone, other actions that fall under the definition of “distracted driving” in New Jersey include the following:

• Eating and drinking.
• Adjusting the radio or climate controls.
• Using a navigation system.
• Talking to passengers in your vehicle.
• Driver fatigue.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), distracted driving claimed the lives of 3,450 people in 2016 alone. As far as injuries go, in 2015, there were 391,000 people injured because of distracted driving. The statistics speak for themselves, making it even more vital that you remain safe behind the wheel. The following tips will help you to avoid distracted driving:

Stay Focused: It should go without saying, but the most important aspect of avoiding distracted driving is to remain focused and alert. In order to help keep your focus on driving safely, you should adjust all necessary equipment before you start driving.

Plan Ahead: That means setting up the radio and navigation system before pulling out on the road. Check your mirrors and make sure that they are properly adjusted. Also, make sure to plan your route ahead of time, and check traffic conditions ahead of time too.

Don’t Eat or Drink: You should do your best to avoid eating and/or drinking while driving as well. If possible, eat before or after your trip. The same goes for getting dressed or doing any other types of personal grooming — get it done before you hit the road.

Rest Before Driving: It is also important to make sure that you are well-rested before driving, no matter the distance. Drowsy driving is just as bad as drunk driving and can lead to catastrophic injuries in a car accident.

Don’t Use Your Cell Phone: Again, avoid using your cell phone. Put it away or turn it off in order to help you avoid the temptation to use it. No text is worth your life or the lives of your passengers and other motorists on the road.

Contact Newark Distracted Driving Accident Lawyers Who Will Fight for You

Regardless of how safe you are while driving, you cannot control the actions of other drivers on the road. If you end up in a car accident because of a distracted driver, you can seek compensation for damages. However, it will likely take an experienced lawyer to make sure that your claim is successful. The experienced team of lawyers at CourtLaw knows what it takes to get you the compensation you deserve and need. We represent distracted driving accident victims in Newark, Clifton, Passaic, Hoboken, and throughout New Jersey. Call (732) 442-5900 or fill out the online contact form to begin discussing your legal options with an experienced lawyer today. We have an office at 163 Market St, Perth Amboy, NJ 08861, as well as offices in New Brunswick, Roselle, East Orange, Jersey City, Elizabeth, Linden, Newark, Paterson, South Amboy, and Trenton, NJ.

The articles on this blog are for informative purposes only and are no substitute for legal advice or an attorney-client relationship. If you are seeking legal advice, please contact our law firm directly.