Curiosity: Human Nature and the Cause of Rubbernecking Accidents

Let’s face it, we are all curious, whether it is about an event happening in our neighborhood or something our neighbors have done to their yard. When we come upon an auto accident, it is only human nature to slow down and look at what took place, something commonly called “rubbernecking.” Unfortunately, there are many instances where rubbernecking leads to another accident. In fact, you may not realize that it is a form of distracted driving.

Distracted Driving

Most of the time, when we think about distracted driving, we think about texting or talking on a cell phone. You probably never even considered that turning to look at what is happening on the side of the road out of curiosity is just as dangerous as texting your husband that he needs to pick up milk on the way home. If you are paying attention to something happening off the road, whether it is a group of protesters, a car accident or a construction zone, you are not giving your full attention to the road or the traffic around you.

How Common Are Rubbernecking Accidents?

It is difficult to determine exactly how common accidents caused by rubbernecking are as few people want to admit that they were too busy looking at something on the side of the road to pay attention to what was in front of them. Rear-end collisions often occur near the scene of other accidents, leading many researchers to suspect rubbernecking as a major cause. The fact is that taking your eyes off the road or the traffic in front of you, even for an instant, can lead to serious collisions.

Involved in an Accident?

If you have been involved in an accident with someone who was rubbernecking, it is important to contact an attorney. Our attorneys can advise you what rights you have under the law, working with you and the insurance companies to get you the compensation you are entitled to receive. It is also important to get medical attention, even if your injuries seem minor. What seems to be a minor injury at first could actually become serious as time passes, so it is important to have any injury documented as soon as possible.

If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident due to someone else’s rubbernecking, contact the personal injury lawyers at Lundy Law. You can arrange for your initial consultation by calling 1-800-Lundy Law or completing the query form on our website.