773-365-0040
April is Distracted Driving Awareness Month, and our Chicago accident lawyer wants to outline many common distractions drivers face while behind the wheel. Despite COVID-19, people are still using their vehicles to get to work if their job is deemed essential, running essential errands, and more. Whether you’ve recently spent time driving or not, it’s important to understand that distracted driving can result in injuries that impact you and others on the road. Here are some of the most common distractions and how to minimize them.
Cell Phones
Using your cell phone while operating a vehicle is illegal in the state of Illinois, and for good reason. Only hands-free methods of using your cell phone can be used while operating a vehicle, and the only time that there’s an exception is when you need to report an emergency situation. Make sure to keep your cell phone put away no matter how tempting it is to reach for it, even while you’re at a stoplight. Keeping your phone put away will allow you to focus on the road instead of being distracted behind the wheel.
Eating
Another common distraction while driving is trying to eat. We’ve all been there: trying to scarf down a meal on the go to help manage a busy schedule. Instead, save the food for when you’re able to sit down and enjoy it. This way, you’re not reaching for food when you should be paying attention to the road.
Loud Music
It’s tempting to blast your favorite playlist to help pass the time in the car, but be mindful of the potential hazards this can cause. Loud music could hinder the sound of an emergency vehicle. Keep the volume at an acceptable level so that you are aware of your surroundings.
Ultimately, anything that takes your attention away from the road is considered to be a distraction. As April is Distracted Driving Awareness Month, make sure that you’re keeping your focus on the road!
In the case that you’ve become injured in an accident, please contact our Chicago accident lawyer today.
