Distracted drivers are one of the most common causes of car accidents. Talking on the cell phone and texting are some of the most common distractions, but you might be amazed at what a recent study has shown some drivers are doing in the car. As many as 11% of men and 5% of women have admitted to having an accident because they were distracted while driving, according to the survey of 1,000 motorists. In the same survey, 30% of men and 20% of women said they had had a near miss due to distractions such as adjusting the car stereo, eating or consuming beverages.

Looking down to grab an item, change the radio station or kiss a passenger may take only a second, but in that time you could miss important road signs or warnings. Many women think nothing of putting makeup on in the car, but rarely do they think of what would happen if they were involved in a wreck. Even a minor accident could cause physical harm to the women, especially if she were putting on something like mascara. While they were a rarity, the most extreme distractions were shaving while driving and reading a book while driving.

Many motorists seem to understand the importance of focusing on the road but despite knowing the dangers they will still take their eyes off the road to do something other than drive. Concentrating on the road needs to be the number one priority once you step into that vehicle. No matter how important it may seem, staying focused on the road is the most important task.

If you’ve been involved in a car wreck, whether it was your fault or someone else’s, call the attorneys at Richard Schwartz and Associates. They’ll help you take the necessary steps to work through your claim and reduce as much stress as possible.