Don’t Let Kids Cause Distracted Driving

The most recent statistics show that in the United States distracted driving accidents occur on a daily basis, and claim the lives of 9 persons each day. Over a thousand persons are injured in distracting driving accidents each day, as well. This is a growing menace on our streets and highways. Distracted driving is legally defined as being disturbed in the operation of a motor vehicle. The two most common causes for distracted driving are cell phones and engaging in conversation and/or activity with a passenger.

If you or someone you love has been injured in a distracted driving accident, you should call upon the services of an experienced vehicle accident attorney. They can help you settle costs and decide whether or not to pursue legal action. 

Passengers are one of the main culprits in distracted driving accidents and fatalities. And while an adult should know better than to say or do anything that would distract the driver from paying attention to the road, children have no such learned behavior when they’re small. The fact is that experts say children are four times more likely to cause distracted driving than are adult passengers, and infants are eight times more likely to distract a driver than an adult passenger claims Bradshaw Law LLC. Anyone who has ever driven with a child in a car knows that this is just about right on the money.

To reduce negative and distracting behavior by children passengers, the car should be kept at a comfortable temperature. Avoid playing loud and raucous music. Keep some snacks and bottle water on hand for when children grow irritable from hunger and thirst. 

Perhaps one of the most important things to do for older children is to set expectations before any motor trip begins. Let them know that misbehavior in the car will not only have consequences, but can endanger everyone both passengers and pedestrians. Most older children respond favorably when the responsibility of car safety is shared with them.