While there are many reasons for a driver to be distracted including eating, drinking, using maps, talking to passengers. Perhaps one of the most obvious driving distractions of our time is the use of Smartphones. Whether it be emailing, texting, talking, or Pokemon Go, this one device alone gives drivers the temptation to avert their eyes.
Distracted driving has become an epidemic to the present, in fact, an astonishing 7 out of 10 people admit to using their smartphone while driving. AT&T has recently launched their it can wait movement to bring awareness to the seriousness of distracted driving. AT&T is using a virtual reality simulator that allows a person to see the effects of texting while driving in just a mere 3 minutes. This gives the ability to reach a lot of people in a short amount of time. AT&T is also getting pledges from people not to use their smartphone while driving.
Through research, AT&T found that 4-in-10 of those that did pledge not to use their smartphone while driving also asked those that they know not to use their smartphone while driving. 1/3 asked that the driver not to use while they had passengers and 4-in-10 asked that a passenger manages their smartphone.
This movement has inspired more than 7 million people to take the pledge not to text while driving. The simulator is currently traveling through Washington making stops at a mall and then a high school.
If you or someone you know has been in an accident that involved a distracted driver you have the right to seek financial compensation for any physical harms, emotional distress, medical expenses, or lost wages you may acquire as a result. Meyerkord & Kurth have experienced personal injury attorneys in St. Louis that can review your case at a free initial consultation. We have someone available 24/7 at our toll-free number that can assist in setting this up. Please call us at 800-391-4318.