Distracted Drivers: A Nightmare for Pedestrians

 

Walking around San Jose should be safe. But with distracted drivers behind the wheel, the simple act of crossing the street becomes dangerous.

 

Many pedestrians are at risk of serious injuries or even their lives due to vehicle crashes, many of which are caused by distracted drivers. It is important for San Jose motorists to consider the safety of those they share the road with.

 

What is Distracted Driving?

 

Distracted driving happens when drivers do anything other than focus on driving. This could mean taking their hands off the wheel, looking away from the road, or simply not paying attention. It only takes a few seconds of distraction for things to go wrong.

 

Pedestrians are at even greater risk when a driver is distracted.

 

Distracted driving comes in different forms, and understanding them can help you stay safe as a pedestrian. If you’re hit by a distracted driver, seek the help of an experienced San Jose pedestrian accident injury lawyer. They have the skills and knowledge to help you win fair compensation.

 

Types of Distracted Driving

 

1.   Manual Distractions

 

Manual distractions happen when drivers remove their hands from the steering wheel. Whether it's sending a quick text, eating a sandwich, or adjusting the radio, these actions reduce their ability to control the car.

 

A car moving at just 25 mph covers 37 feet in a second. That's enough time for a distracted driver to miss a pedestrian crossing the road.

 

2.   Visual Distractions

 

Visual distractions occur when a driver takes their eyes off the road. Looking at a phone, checking the GPS, or glancing at a passenger can take a driver's attention away from what's in front of them.

 

When this happens, pedestrians, especially those in crosswalks or intersections, can go unnoticed.

 

A driver glancing away for a few seconds may miss the chance to stop, putting pedestrians in harm's way.

 

3.   Cognitive Distractions

 

Cognitive distractions are when the driver is physically present but mentally absent. Even if a driver's hands are on the wheel and their eyes are on the road, their mind could be elsewhere.

 

Daydreaming, worrying about work, or talking to passengers can divide their attention.

 

These distractions slow down a driver's reaction time. If a driver isn't mentally focused, they might not notice you stepping off the curb until too late.

 

Legal Consequences for Distracted Drivers

 

When a driver causes an accident because they were distracted, they are considered negligent. This means they failed to act responsibly while driving. Pedestrians hit by these drivers can file claims to hold them accountable for their actions.

 

In some cases, the court may even award punitive damages. These are extra fines meant to punish a driver for their dangerous behavior. This can happen when the driver is engaged in an act that is considered gross negligence.

 

If you're ever in such a situation, the driver could face serious legal consequences, including fines, penalties, or even jail time.

 

How Pedestrians Can Protect Themselves

 

While you can't control a distracted driver, you can take steps to protect yourself. Here are some things you can do to stay safe:

 

1.   Be cautious at crosswalks and intersections

Always make sure drivers see you before stepping into a crosswalk. Even if you have the right of way, look both ways and make eye contact with drivers. This helps ensure that they've noticed you and will stop.

 

2.   Avoid using headphones or phones while walking

Listening to music or checking your phone while walking is tempting, but staying alert is essential. If you aren't paying attention to those around you, it could lead to an accident. Keeping your eyes and ears open could save your life.

 

3.   Wear visible clothing at night

If you walk or jog after dark, wear bright or reflective clothing. Distracted drivers may have an even harder time seeing you at night. By making yourself more visible, you can reduce the chances of being overlooked by a driver who needs to be entirely focused.

 

Efforts to Combat Distracted Driving

 

Fortunately, there are efforts in place to fight distracted driving. Many public awareness campaigns aim to educate drivers about the dangers of distractions. You may have seen ads or billboards reminding drivers to "Put the Phone Down" or to "Focus on the Road."

 

New laws also target distracted driving. In some states, using a handheld phone while driving is illegal, and fines for violations can be steep. Hopefully, these laws will reduce distractions and make the roads safer for everyone, especially pedestrians.

 

Additionally, technology is stepping in to help. Some vehicles now have features like lane-keeping assist and automatic braking, which are useful if a driver is distracted.

Some apps block phone use while driving, helping to reduce distractions.

 

Conclusion

Distracted driving is a serious problem that puts pedestrians at significant risk. Being aware of these dangers and taking steps to protect yourself as a pedestrian can help you stay safe.