The Dangers of Reading While Driving

The news media is full of stories about accidents caused due to distracted driving, but these stories often involve texting or talking on a mobile phone. However, another type of distracted driving occurs often on highways as well, according to police officers.

In an effort to eliminate the boredom of driving the same roads day after day, many drivers carry newspapers, books or electronic reading devices, such as a Kindle or Nook, to read while they are sitting in traffic. Although you may think there is nothing wrong with reading while sitting still in traffic or waiting for a traffic light to change, the practice is extremely dangerous.

Major Distraction

If you are sitting still in traffic or at a stop light, you must still be aware of the traffic around you. Traffic could move forward or the light could change. If you are reading, your concentration is not on the road or on traffic conditions.

In addition, someone behind you may see traffic moving and not realize you are still remaining still as you had not noticed the moving traffic, causing them to strike you from behind.

Reading While Driving

Police have reported incidents where drivers have been reading while the vehicle is moving, not just when the vehicle is stopped. If you are scanning the report you need to review before the meeting you are heading to, you may not see a child run into the road after a ball or that the light you are approaching has turned red. The dangers have been supported by research that shows you are ten times more likely to collide with a car, pedestrian or object if they are reading while driving.

Breaking the Habit

Long commutes can be incredibly boring so the best way to break the habit of reading while driving is to find something to entertain you that will not take your eyes off the road. If you have been reading a book or Kindle behind the wheel, purchase audio books that you can enjoy while driving. Some electronic devices, such as cell phones, may have the option of downloading books and having them read over Bluetooth devices. If you are in the habit of reading the newspaper, tune to an all-news station to learn what is happening in the world.

If you or a loved one has been injured by someone who was reading while driving, contact the personal injury lawyers at Lundy Law to learn what rights you may have. You may be entitled to compensation for lost wages, medical bills as well as pain and suffering. Hiring our attorneys  can help ensure you receive the compensation you are entitled to under the law. Arrange for your initial consultation by calling 1-800-Lundy Law or completing the simple form online.