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October 24th, 2024
Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of car accidents. When a driver is not paying close attention, they put themselves and everyone else on the road at risk. It is always hazardous to be distracted while driving, whether you are texting, adjusting the radio, or eating and drinking. However, while some distractionsâlike texting and drivingâare known to be explicitly illegal; the legality of others, such as eating while driving, are not as commonly known.
There are many different activities that can be classified as distracted driving. The most obvious and most common is cell phone usage, which can include taking selfies, scrolling through social media, texting, or talking on the phone. Many states now have hands-free laws that prohibit the use of hand-held electronics while operating a motor vehicle. However, cellphone usage is not the only form of distracted driving that results in motor vehicle collisions.
Some of the most common driving distractions include:
As aforementioned, passengers using their phones to text, call, go through social media, take selfies, etc., cause many potential dangers to others.
When drivers turn their attention to the passengersâwhether that be talking to the person next to them or turning to ones in the backseatâthey drop their focus on the road, putting themselves and others at risk.
If a driver is blasting music or listening to an engaging podcast, they may fail to hear another driver honk or notice something important going on in the traffic around them.
Maybe a driver is rushing to get somewhere and plans to fix their hair, do their makeup, or shave while driving. This is an extreme distraction because the driverâs focus is almost entirely off the road.
Hot or messy foods and drinks often require concentration, which, if done while driving, can cause the driver to lose focus on the road.
In short, yes, it is technically legal to eat while driving. Although no explicit laws prevent drivers from eating or drinking while behind the wheel, it should still be avoided because it can result in catastrophic accidents.
In order to prevent food from being a distraction when behind the wheel, drivers should carve out time from their day to eat before getting in the car. This can also help keep your car and clothes stay clean! If completely impossible, drivers should at least avoid hot or messy foods and beverages while driving and eat while the car is not in motion.
If you or someone you know were injured in a crash caused by a distracted driver, reach out to one of the experienced attorneys at Bordas & Bordas today.
