America’s roads have become increasingly dangerous in recent years, with distracted driving playing a significant role in the surge of deadly crashes. Bader Scott Injury lawyers conducted a study analyzing 2022 data from various government agencies to determine the impact of distracted driving on the nation’s fatality rates. The study revealed that out of 42,514 crash deaths in 2022, 3,308 (7.78%) were caused by distracted driving, a slightly higher figure than the annual average of 3,132. Contrary to popular belief, only around 6% of distracted driving fatalities involved teenagers, with the largest age group being drivers between 20 and 39, accounting for 42% of distracted driving deaths.
### Impact of Distracted Driving on Fatality Rates
While distractions can encompass a variety of activities, Bader Scott’s study focused on three main categories: visual distractions, manual distractions, and cognitive distractions. Visual distractions involve taking one’s eyes off the road, such as looking at scenery or an accident, while manual distractions occur when the driver takes their hands off the wheel, such as using a phone or eating. Cognitive distractions, on the other hand, happen when the driver’s focus is elsewhere, like when they are talking on the phone or daydreaming.
### Trends in Distracted Driving Fatalities
The study also highlighted some key trends in distracted driving fatalities. While fatalities increased by 14% between 2018 and 2022, there was a slight decrease in numbers from 2011 to 2022. This suggests that efforts to curb distracted driving may be having some impact, but more work is needed to further reduce the number of deaths caused by this dangerous behavior.
### Ranking of States for Distracted Driving
Bader Scott’s study also ranked the best and worst states for distracted driving. New Mexico, Kansas, and Louisiana were identified as the worst states for distracted driving, while Rhode Island, Connecticut, and Alaska were rated as the best. Rhode Island, in particular, stood out with a 0% distracted driving fatality rate, showcasing the potential for effective measures to combat distracted driving in certain states.
### Conclusion
In conclusion, the study conducted by Bader Scott Injury lawyers sheds light on the alarming impact of distracted driving on road safety in America. With a significant number of fatalities attributed to distractions behind the wheel, it is crucial for drivers to prioritize focus and attention while driving. By understanding the various types of distractions and working towards minimizing them, individuals can play a role in reducing the number of deaths caused by distracted driving on our roads.