Our nation’s healthcare industry is more important now than ever. Working in healthcare can be emotionally gratifying, and it can allow you to build a career while making enough to comfortably support your family. But, just like many other jobs, those in the DC area who work in healthcare will spend a significant amount of time commuting to and from work.
While some commuters will rely on public transportation, oftentimes it is easier or preferable to drive yourself. When you spend part of every morning and evening on the road, it can be tempting to try to do something else at the same time. You may be trying to respond to a work email, eat a quick meal or tune the radio station. However, all these actions can ultimately lead to a distracted driving accident.
What is distracted driving?
There are three ways a driver can be distracted behind the wheel. Some distractions are visual distractions that take your eyes off the road. Some distractions are manual distractions that take your hands off the steering wheel. And, some distractions are cognitive distractions that take your attention off the task of driving.
Case study: texting and driving
Let’s look at an example that encompasses all three of these distractions: texting and driving. A person who is texting and driving has taken their eyes off the road and onto their cellphone — a visual distraction. A person who is texting and driving has also taken their hands off the steering wheel and onto their cellphone — a manual distraction. Finally, a person who is texting and driving has taken their attention off the task of driving by focusing instead on reading and replying to the text — a cognitive distraction.
Sometimes litigating is necessary when it comes to distracted driving
Distracted driving is not just dangerous. It is negligent behavior that could lead to a car crash that injures or kills another person. If you find that you have been injured or killed in a motor vehicle accident caused by a distracted driver, you may want to pursue legal action. While it may be tempting to settle, you should not be afraid to litigate your case. Oftentimes a settlement does not cover all your losses. And, you do not have to litigate alone. Skilled, experienced and honest attorneys are available to assist you throughout the trial process, so you can understand what to expect and can make informed decisions.