Free Case Review for Personal Injury and Medical Malpractice

Distracted Driving: Causes & Statistics

Home - Car Accidents - Distracted Driving: Causes & Statistics

Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of car accidents across the United States, and Indiana is no exception. It’s not just texting while driving—any activity that diverts your hands, eyes, or mind from driving increases the risk of a crash. According to national statistics, distracted driving contributes to 1 in 5 crashes involving injury and 6 out of 10 teen car crashes.

Understanding the dangers of distracted driving, its legal consequences in Indiana, and practical ways to prevent it can help protect yourself and others on the road.

What Is Distracted Driving?

Distracted driving is defined as any activity that diverts attention from the primary task of driving, according to the CDC, the National Highway and Traffic Safety Administration(NHTSA), and AAA.

Common Types of Distractions

  • Talking on a cell phone, hand-held or hands-free

  • Texting, emailing, or checking social media

  • Taking pictures or videos

  • Using navigation apps

  • Adjusting music, radio, or climate controls

  • Eating or drinking

  • Personal grooming, such as applying makeup

Even hands-free devices do not eliminate risk. The National Safety Council reports that nearly 1 in 4 car crashes involves a cell phone conversation, whether hand-held or hands-free.

Distracted Driving Among Teen Drivers

Teen drivers are particularly vulnerable to distractions. Studies, including the Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance System, show that 2 out of 5 high school students who drive have sent a text or email while driving in the past 30 days.

According to a study by AAA, the most common forms of distraction in teenage drivers includes:

  • Talking with passengers

  • Looking at objects inside or outside the car

  • Singing, dancing, or adjusting music

  • Reaching for items in the car

  • Eating
  • Putting on makeup, or another form of grooming

Teen drivers often adopt habits they see in adults or struggle to manage multiple stimuli due to inexperience.

Risks and Consequences of Distracted Driving

Distracted driving can have serious safety and legal consequences. In 2015 alone, it caused 3,477 deaths nationwide. Injuries can range from minor scrapes to catastrophic, life-altering accidents.

Legal Consequences in Indiana

  • Distracted driving can be charged as reckless driving.

  • If someone is killed due to your distraction, you may face vehicular manslaughter charges, which carry prison time.

  • Victims of accidents caused by distracted drivers may pursue civil compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Even minor distractions can have severe consequences in the Hoosier State, making legal guidance critical after a crash.

How to Prevent Distracted Driving

Experts recommend removing temptation and planning ahead:

  1. Put your phone away – keep it in a glove box or purse.

  2. Set your navigation system before driving.

  3. Choose your music or podcast in advance.

  4. Avoid eating or grooming while driving.

  5. Limit passengers, especially with teen drivers.

Staying focused behind the wheel is the most effective way to prevent accidents and protect everyone on the road.

Injured by a Distracted Driver in Indiana?

Even if you follow all safety precautions, you cannot control other drivers’ behavior. If you’ve been injured in an accident caused by a distracted driver, you may have legal rights to recover compensation.

Steps to take after a distracted driving accident:

  • Obtain complete police and accident reports

  • Document injuries and medical treatment

  • Gather witness statements and photos of the scene

  • Contact an experienced Indiana car accident attorney

Even if you do everything you can to remain attentive while driving, you cannot control the conduct of a distracted driver. If you are in an accident with a distracted driver and you’ve suffered an injury, our firm can help.

Contact Langer & Langer for a lawyer in an Indiana car accident case.

 

Book A Free Consultation*

Have legal questions or need expert advice? Our experienced team is here to help.

Note* : Family Law Services Are Subject to Fees

By providing a telephone number and submitting this form you are consenting to be contacted by SMS text message from 219-464-3246 about our services. Message frequency may vary. Message & data rates may apply. You can reply STOP to opt-out of further messaging. Reply HELP for more information or call us at 219-464-3246. See our Privacy Policy.