Driving is a responsibility that must be taken seriously. A driver must control a vehicle that weighs thousands of pounds in a manner that doesn’t put anyone in danger.
While some drivers may not realize that they’re driving in an unsafe manner, there are two specific driving behaviors that are dangerous but preventable. Drivers must always avoid these or they’re putting themselves and others at risk of catastrophic crashes.
1. Fatigued driving
Fatigued driving is often due to a lack of sleep, but it can also be caused by taking certain medications or by driving when the person’s body would normally need sleep. A driver who’s fatigued may doze off while they’re driving, which means the vehicle is moving without any control. The only option for avoiding fatigued driving is to ensure the driver gets adequate sleep and that they’re in the correct condition to drive.
2. Distracted driving
Distracted driving means the driver is using their hands, mind or eyes to do something other than drive. This can include things like using a cellphone, talking to passengers, thinking about situations at work, looking at billboards or eating a burger. The only way to avoid distracted driving is for the driver to focus solely on driving, even if the distraction seems minor.
Victims of crashes that are due to either of these causes should get prompt medical care. They may decide that they’re going to hold the negligent driver accountable for the financial damages. Getting that claim for compensation filed before the statute of limitations expires is critical, so it may behoove them to work with someone familiar with these matters.