Distracted Drivers Can Spell Disaster for Motorcyclists

Motorcyclists have a great deal at stake when it comes to distracted driving. They are extremely vulnerable in a crash, with only their helmet and riding gear to protect them from impact with another vehicle, nearby objects, or the pavement. Even a minor motorcycle crash on Harrison Avenue in Rockford or on East Riverside Boulevard in Machesney Park can cause significant injuries or even death.

Distracted driving involves performing an activity that takes focus and attention away from the road such as talking on the phone, texting, applying makeup, eating, adjusting the radio, or talking with a passenger. This dangerous behavior can spell disaster for a motorcyclist or other motorist who happens to get in the way.

Sobering Distracted Driving Statistics

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) published some statistics on distracted driving that should give every driver pause:

• Sending a text using a handheld mobile device takes the driver’s eyes off the road for nearly five seconds—the equivalent of driving a car at 55 miles per hour across the length of a football field while blindfolded.
• Talking or texting using a headset or hands-free mobile device is not safer than using a handheld mobile device. The human brain cannot multi-task—the effort of talking or composing a text takes the focus off driving.
• Accident injuries involving a distracted driver are on the rise. In 2012, an estimated 421,000 people were hurt in crashes involving a distracted driver and another 3,328 people were killed.
• At any single moment in the United States, 660,000 people are using a handheld mobile device while driving to talk, text, or perform some other function.

As these statistics clearly show, distracted driving is incredibly dangerous and causes many preventable injuries and deaths. If you have been hurt in a motorcycle crash caused by the actions of a distracted driver, fill out our online contact form and we will get back to you shortly to schedule a complimentary case evaluation. We are here to help you.