We have written many blogs about the dangers of distracted driving, how it is on the rise, and what you can do to prevent yourself from falling victim to its traps. However, today we are going to talk about something a little different: The dangers of distracted driving that are specific to those living in Southern California. Keep reading to find out more and call us at 800-333-0000 if you need a free legal consultation after a car accident.
The Most Common Cause of Death for Tourists is Motor Vehicle Accidents
Distracted driving is always dangerous, but it is most dangerous when a person is driving on a road they are not familiar with. While it is true that driving in the United States is safer than driving in almost all other countries, the most common cause of death worldwide is car accidents – about 1.3 million people die each year in car accidents while on vacation.
People from Out of Town Are More Likely to Be on Their Phones
When a person is visiting from out of state or out of the country, they are likely to need GPS for everywhere they go, whether a short trip or a long one. When their GPS is up, they are likely taking their eyes from the roads frequently. They are also using their phones to find a hotel, find somewhere to eat, or even lookup the driving laws in California. Any of these actions can but everyone on the road at risk for an accident.
You Are Less Likely to Use Your Phone in Familiar Areas
While a person who lives in Southern California is just as likely – perhaps more likely – to drive while distracted than other persons in the world, you are not likely to do so in parts of your neighborhood that require your attention. For example, if there is a stop sign at the end of your block, you likely know to look up before you get there. A person from out of town may be more likely to be looking at their phone and roll right through it.
Of course, this does not exactly keep you safe – when people are in their own neighborhoods, they believe they know all the twists and turns and that they can glance at their phones for a “few seconds” to change the radio station, check their phone, etc. The truth is that it is exactly in these residential areas that you are most likely to hit a pedestrian who is crossing the street, a person biking, or another car.
The bottom line is that everyone should keep their eyes on the road, whether they live in the location in which they are driving, or it is their first time there. In the event you are injured in a distracted driving accident, contact The Law Offices of Larry H. Parker at 800-333-0000 for a free legal consultation.
