More and more research is confirming that the newest deadly problem facing drivers is what has been termed 'distracted driving'.
In fact, some studies argue that it is replacing drinking and driving as the biggest reason for automobile and truck fatalities on today's roads. With all the data that continues to be accumulated - this statement is hard to argue against. But before we talk facts and figures consider the reality of the following two incidents reported.
A high school boy in a nearby state who recently got his license was driving himself and friends to school - music blaring, everybody moving to the music and enjoying the freedom like no other that comes with being a teenage boy with your own car. A friend pulls up beside him - engines revving they decide to show off a little and race to the school parking lot. One car loses control and one teenage boy loses his life. One young man had to have extensive reconstructive surgery - no one is left unscathed emotionally.
Elsewhere a mother was alternately holding cell phone conversations with two children back and forth - putting the finishing touches on the after school schedule of who, what, where, when and why. She failed to see a stop sign - went through and was struck from the side. Sadly, she will be making no more schedules.
Distracted driving statistics now run as high as 20% percent of highway fatalities or - in real numbers - about 6000 persons killed last year alone in distracted driving accidents.
As a Texas personal injury attorney I am afforded a front row seat to the carnage - and the devastation left in its wake from distracted drivers.
Don't drive distracted because it may be the last time you drive.
Greg Baumgartner is a Texas truck accident lawyer and the founder of the Baumgartner law firm, which is dedicated to helping personal injury victims in Texas seek civil justice. For a free no obligation consultation with a Texas personal injury lawyer in call the Baumgartner Firm at 281-587-1111.
