You’re stopped at a red light and glance in your rearview mirror. The driver behind you is looking down at their phone instead of the road ahead. Your grip tightens on the steering wheel, knowing they might not stop in time. It’s a situation no one wants to find themselves in.
April is National Distracted Driving Awareness Month, a crucial reminder that defensive driving skills have never been more important. With approximately 3,000 people killed annually in distracted driving crashes nationwide, knowing how to protect yourself could save your life.
Defensive Strategies to Protect Yourself
Ohio saw 8,571 crashes related to distracted driving in 2024. And even though this number is down since 2023’s distracted driving law took effect, the actual number is likely much higher, as distraction is often underreported.
While texting gets the most attention, distractions include eating, adjusting controls, reaching for objects, and even daydreaming. Regardless of what’s causing the distraction, these tactics can help keep you safe:
- Maintain a large following distance behind vehicles that show signs of distracted driving
- Avoid driving in blind spots of vehicles with distracted drivers
- Use defensive positioning at intersections in case cross-traffic fails to stop
- Consider changing lanes or routes to distance yourself from erratic drivers
- Reduce your own distractions to maintain full awareness of your surroundings
If you notice signs of a distracted driver, note their license plate number—having it could be beneficial in the event of a hit-and-run. In serious cases where the driver presents an immediate danger, have a passenger call 911 (never call while driving yourself).
When Prevention Isn’t Enough
Despite your best defensive driving efforts, distracted drivers can still cause accidents. If you’re injured in a crash, document everything at the scene, including any evidence of driver distraction like phones in hand or on seats. Ask witnesses if they saw distracted behavior and report these observations to responding officers. Proper documentation can strengthen your case and help establish the other driver’s negligence!
Know Your Legal Rights When Facing Distracted Drivers
Ohio law protects victims of distracted driving accidents. You may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage.
If you’ve been injured by a distracted driver despite your best precautions, the Law Offices of Tim Misny can help you navigate this difficult time. When you’re the victim of someone else’s distracted driving, I’ll Make Them Pay!® Call my office at (877) 614-9524 so I can evaluate your case right away.
