Fighting Behind the Wheel and Crash Risks
The road can be a stressful environment, and when arguments begin emotions can escalate quickly. It is important for everyone’s safety that drivers recognize that engaging in a heated argument while operating a vehicle is a form of distracted driving. Fighting in a car or truck can significantly increase the risk of accidents.
There are steps you can take to keep safe if an argument erupts in a vehicle while you are driving. If you did what you could but were involved in a collision despite your best efforts, talk to a Delray Beach personal injury attorney to connect with guidance on handling the aftermath of an accident resulting from such distractions.
A Broader View of Distracted Driving
Public service announcements are in place for some forms of distracted driving, such as texting and interacting with a digital device, but distracted driving is connected to more than one or two activities. The term refers to any activity that diverts a person’s attention away from the primary task of driving.
Engaging in an argument within the confines of a vehicle is a prime example of distracted driving, as it compromises the driver’s ability to focus on the road. Ways that a fight can be distracting:
- Arguing can divert a car or truck driver’s attention visually, as they may turn to face the other person involved in the dispute, taking their eyes off the road.
- Physically engaging in an argument, such as gesturing or reaching out, takes the driver’s hands off the wheel, limiting their ability to control the vehicle.
- Fights are often emotionally charged, leading to cognitive distractions as the driver’s mind becomes preoccupied with the disagreement rather than focusing on driving.
If an argument does break out in your vehicle, defusing the situation is important for the safety of the people within your vehicle and others on Florida roadways.
Address the Risk to Avoid Accidents
As soon as an argument starts, ask everyone in the vehicle to remain calm and refrain from escalating the dispute. Should the fight persist, pull over to a safe location in order to allow everyone in the vehicle to cool down. As a driver, you should not continue until you can refocus on the road and the task of driving calmly.
In some situations, if the driver is very emotional about the situation, it may make sense to switch drivers so an upset party is not in charge of the vehicle. This can help prevent further distractions and reduce the risk of an accident.
Distracted driving needs to be taken seriously as it increases the likelihood of accidents. If you need support after an accident due to a driver not being attentive, speak to a Delray Beach personal injury attorney.
Was a fight in a vehicle what led to your accident injury? Consulting with the lawyers at Earnhart Law in Delray Beach means you will have over 30 years of experience on your side. Book your no-commitment consultation today. Call 561-265-2220 or contact us online.
