These days there are plenty of research studies and news stories that detail just how dangerous distracted driving can be. In fact, there are studies coming out practically every week discussing the dangers of distracted driving.
Many people believe that although distracted driving in and of itself is dangerous, that the behaviors they do in their own car simply doesn’t translate to lost focus from the road. That’s why you’re are so common to see people who are eating behind the wheel of a car.
You might be asking yourself: Is it really that dangerous, though? Along with other types of distracted driving behaviors, eating or drinking beverages behind the wheel of your car could present a major safety risk on Florida highways.
Don’t Downplay the Dangers of Distracted Driving
Most people minimize just how distracted they are when they are eating. There are three common types of distractions in general, that can impair a driver’s ability to avoid crashes and operate a vehicle safely. These include:
- Manual distractions that require a driver to remove their hands from the wheel.
- Visual distractions that take a driver’s eyes off the road for just a couple of seconds in order to pay attention to something else.
- Cognitive distractions that take a driver’s focus and mind away from driving.
While each of these kinds of distraction are dangerous, combined, they pose a larger risk to pedestrians, bicyclists, passenger and driver safety. Eating and driving frequently includes a combination of one or more distractions.
Also Read : Driver Distractions That Pose the Greatest Risk
Consider, for example, that it often requires that you use napkins, hold the food with one hand while driving with another, applying condiments and unwrapping food packaging. Spilling beverages, particularly if those beverages are hot, can also be extremely distracting and dangerous for drivers.
According to a recent study by Exxon Mobil, 70% of drivers were guilty of eating while driving and 83% partook in drinking beverages while behind the wheel. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, eating and driving can increase the likelihood of a vehicle crash by as much as 80%.
distracted drivers who are eating or drinking while behind the wheel of a car. These statistics might seem shocking, but it proves just how dangerous it can be to eat and drive at the same time. Pedestrians, passengers and drivers can all be at risk of injuries or even fatalities in a car crash.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has even gone so far as to outline the 10 most dangerous types of food eaten behind the wheel. These included chilies, soups, coffee, tacos, fried chicken, barbequed food, soft drinks, chocolate, powdered or cream filled doughnuts, and hamburgers.
Eating behind the wheel can be very difficult, and it also increases the chances that you’ll make a mess in your car. Make sure you plan ahead and factor in time to stop and eat safely.
It’s not worth a major car accident and food flung all over your car; set aside ten minutes so you can pull over and eat before getting back on the road.
It might seem like you’ve got things under control with just one hand on the wheel, but holding something large in your hand like a drink or a hamburger makes it harder for you to react quickly if someone swerves in front of you.
Eating While Driving : Consult with an Attorney
Keeping all items, including food, out of your hands while you’re driving gives you the best possible chance to avoid serious accidents.
While it’s best to avoid these at-risk foods, it’s a good idea to never drink and eat behind the wheel. Wait until you are able to pull over and take a break in order to enjoy your meal or enjoy your drink.
It could just save your life. If you have already been involved in an accident due to someone else eating and driving, contact a knowledgeable Florida personal injury lawyer today.