There are three types of distractions: manual, visual and cognitive. Drivers in Connecticut should know that they are susceptible to all three and that even simple tasks like changing the radio station can constitute a distraction. Distracted driving is unsafe and contributes to numerous accidents. In fact, such accidents kill an average of nine people and injure 100 every day in this country.
Connecticut's drunk driving fatalities
Across the nation and in Connecticut, many agencies and advocacy groups have worked tirelessly to increase awareness about the dangers of drunk driving. Unfortunately, it seems that far too many people in Connecticut refuse to pay attention or heed these warnings. Instead, they make selfish and reckless choices that result in tragedy for others. Data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration shows that the state's drunk driving fatalities comprise a much heftier percentage of overall traffic fatalities than the national average.
Reducing distracted driving among teens
Distracted driving is a frequent cause of accidents in Connecticut and across the country. Teen drivers seem to be especially prone to distraction from cell phones and other electronic devices. Public awareness materials and driver's education courses may help teens understand the risks of distracted driving. Parents may also be able to help by demonstrating safe driving practices, including not using a cell phone while behind the wheel. Connecticut has certain restrictions designed to reduce the frequency of distracted driving among teens.
Hands-free cellphones pose a risk for drivers
Drivers in Connecticut, and in many other states across the nation, are prohibited from using a hand-held cellphone while behind the wheel. These laws were put in place in an attempt to minimize the number of people who are seriously injured and killed in distracted driving car accidents each year in the U.S. Hands-free cellphones, however, are not prohibited and drivers can legally use these devices as they navigate around city streets. The problem lies in the fact that even hands-free cellphones may not be safe for drivers to use, as they cause a significant amount of cognitive distraction.
Negligent entrustment explained
Many in Norwalk may only view the collective cost of car accidents in terms of loss of life. This point of view is understandable, given that the only thing that cannot be fully compensated for following such an accident is the loss of a loved one. Yet this perspective also does not take into account the massive financial toll that car accidents can exact. Few likely realize that (according to information shared by Safer America) car accidents in America have a net financial impact of over $242 billion annually.
Understanding the consequences of large truck collisions
Motor vehicle collisions of any kind can be devastating, but those involving large trucks can be especially tragic. These accidents frequently claim lives due to the size of large trucks, and even when victims do not pass away they frequently sustain serious injuries that permanently disrupt their lives. Whether a large truck driver has difficulty slowing down due to the size of their vehicle or they slam into another vehicle at a high rate of speed, these accidents often bring significant consequences in Connecticut and across the U.S. As a result, truck drivers and all other drivers should do what they can to avoid a crash.
What are the child safety seat requirements?
Protecting your children is something you do every day as a parent. It should not be something you slack on when it comes to riding in a vehicle. Studies have shown repeatedly that child safety seats save lives. Anytime you put your child in a car, he or she must be in the correct child safety seat based on his or her age and weight. Connecticut law is very specific about these guidelines, and it is your responsibility as a parent to know and understand them.
Are you prepared for Connecticut's winter roads?
Risk Factors for Connecticut Residents Involved in a Car Crash
Ever wonder why some people get more injured than others in the same car crash? There may be many reasons, but some reasons are well documented by doctors, first responders, accident reconstructionists and other professionals.
Falling Asleep at the Wheel is Negligent, but is it "Reckless"?
Have you ever seen a car swerving back and forth on the highway, straying outside of the lanes? You probably thought this was a drunk driver. But perhaps it was a drowsy driver instead. Our Connecticut courts have had opportunity to address this situation. In the case of Potz v. Williams, 113 Conn 278 (1931), an older case that established a precedent for our current law today, the Court found that drowsy driving could support a claim for negligence. But what makes the decision interesting is the discussion about the driver's failure to stop driving when he knew that he was tired, but decided to continue on regardless. In such cases, there may be a claim for recklessness, which exposes a defendant to greater damages than a simple negligence case.
