Anything that can take your focus off of the road can be classified as a distraction. If you drive while using a cellphone, while under the influence of drugs or alcohol or while lost in thought, you are at a higher risk of causing a car accident. Let’s look at a few of the specific dangers of not paying attention to what’s going on around you while driving on an Illinois highway.
You Might Miss Important Clues From Other Motorists
If you’re looking down when another motorist turns on his or her vehicle’s turn signal, you might miss the fact that it is about to change lanes. If you are looking down when a vehicle’s brake lights illuminate, you won’t immediately recognize that it is about to slow down. In either scenario, a failure to comprehend what other motorists are trying to do can lead to an accident.
You May Make it Harder For Other Drivers to Anticipate Your Actions
It’s not uncommon to drive too fast for road conditions when you’re lost in thought. This may be especially true if you’re driving during periods of heavy rain, fog, or under the cover of darkness. During periods of low visibility, you may drive faster than you realize because it’s harder to perceive where you are in relation to other objects.
Furthermore, you may be less likely to use your turn signal, which may make it harder for other drivers to take action to prevent a collision if they are in your path. Ultimately, driving while distracted may make it harder for others to drive in a defensive manner, which can increase the chances of a motor vehicle accident took place.
If you are involved in an accident caused by a distracted driver, it may be possible to obtain compensation. You may be able to use witness statements, toxicology reports, or cellphone records to prove that another party was responsible for any losses incurred.
Don't hesitate to reach out to Shay + Associates Law Firm if you require the expertise of a skilled personal injury lawyer in Springfield or Decatur, Illinois.