Driver distraction can lead to all kinds of serious accidents, which is why it's important for drivers to remain attentive and undistracted while they are operating their vehicle. This means eyes forward and both hands on the wheel. Yet distractions take many forms. One such distraction is reaching for objects that are loose or may have dropped while driving.

The lawyers at our Melbourne law firm know that all kinds of distractions can cause minor or even catastrophic car accidents. With this in mind, we want to consider why loose objects in your vehicle can be dangerous. We'll also offer some tips on how you can stay safe while behind the wheel.

Reaching for Loos Objects in the Car

Any time you reach for a loose object in your car, you take a hand off the wheel. When reaching for an object near you or on your person, this isn't necessarily a big deal. For objects in the backseat or in difficult-to-access spots, this can prove dangerous. Your eyes can be diverted from the road, your body may be in an awkward position, and you may have just one hand on the wheel for an extended amount of time.

Trying to Retrieve Items from the Floor

If you drop an object on the floor of your vehicle, reaching can be a major hassle. This is especially true if the object drops on the passenger floor or in the back of the vehicle. Reaching for this item can prove extremely difficult and even dangerous.

Objects Caught Between Car Seats

Losing something between the seats of a car can be a major hassle, especially when the object slips between the console and the seat or between the door and seat. Reaching around and fishing blind for the object can be a major distraction, and hence a potential cause of a collision.

Tips for Driver Safety

There are a few common sense things that you can do to avoid serious harm while driving your car:

  • Keep Important Items Within Easy Reach – If you have a map, printed directions, sunglasses, or some object that that you need to have nearby while driving, be sure to have that object within each so you can maintain attention and vehicle control.
  • Avoid Reaching for Objects You Don't Need – Some items are inessential while you're on the road. Instead of retrieving them while the vehicle is in motion, wait until you've made a complete stop or until you have reached your destination.
  • Use Cup Holders When Applicable – Having a little sip of water or some beverage is important, especially on long drives. Keep the beverage in a cup/drink holder that's placed conveniently around you to avoid serious collisions or losing control of the car.
  • Rely on Your Passenger(s) – If you are driving with another person in the vehicle, politely ask them to get any objects you need that aren't immediately available. If someone else can worry about the item, you can focus on the road.
  • Have a Hands-Free Kit for Your Phone – Using a smart for GPS/navigation is important, and sometimes you need to take or make an important call. Given these realities, be sure to have a hands-free kit in your vehicle so you have the phone in a convenient place that isn't a distraction or a danger.
  • Use Common Sense: Let It Go – Sometimes after you drop an item, the best option is to just let it lay there until later. Wait until you're completely stopped and safe before picking up, cleaning up, or doing whatever it is you need to do.

Learn More About Auto Accident Lawsuits

For more information about your legal rights and options during car crashes and other types of collisions, be sure to contact our team of experienced auto accident attorneys. The lawyers of Charpentier Law Firm, P.A. are here to help you in your time of legal need.

WE HAVE A HISTORY OF SUCCESS

IN BREVARD COUNTY


Over the past 40-plus years of helping Brevard County's injured and mistreated, our firm has obtained some $65 million in recoveries on behalf of our clients, highlighted by an $15.5 million product liability award.

The team at Charpentier Law Firm has the negotiation skills to reach favorable settlements in many cases, but also has the experience and perseverance to try a case to verdict whenever it is in the best interests of our clients. Our history of success illustrates our dedication to our clients and their pursuit of justice. Our personal injury attorneys in Melbourne, Titusville, and Cocoa are proud to offer superior legal representation to victims and their families throughout Brevard County and Central Florida.

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